GJRMI - Volume 2, Issue 3, March 2013

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An International, Peer Reviewed, Open access, Monthly E-Journal

ISSN 2277 – 4289 www.gjrmi.com Editor-in-chief Dr Hari Venkatesh K Rajaraman

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Honorary Members - Editorial Board Dr Farhad Mirzaei Mr. Harshal Ashok Pawar


INDEX – GJRMI, Vol.2, Iss. 3, March 2013 Medicinal plants Research Ethno-Pharmacology & Animal health EFFECTS OF THE FRESH LEAVES OF SPONDIAS MOMBIN L. ON MILK PRODUCTION OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) EWES AND THEIR LAMB’S GROWTH PERFORMANCE Akouèdégni C G, I. Gbégo Tossa, Ahoussi E, Hounzangbé-Adoté M S 126-134 Bio-Technology BROAD SPECTRUM ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OFALANGIUM SALVIIFOLIUM FLOWER EXTRACT Ashalatha, Gopinath S M 135-141 Bio-Chemistry & Cell Biology INDUCTION OF APOPTOSIS IN MYELOGENOUS LEUKEMIC K562 CELLS BY ETHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF ANNONA MURICATA L. Ezirim A U, Okochi V I, James A B, Adebeshi O A, Ogunnowo S, Odeghe O B 142-151 Review PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES OF YASHTIMADHU (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA L.) IN VARIOUS ANIMAL MODELS - A REVIEW Korhalkar Anagha, Deshpande Manasi, Lele Priya, Modak Meera 152-164

Indigenous medicine Ayurveda PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION OF LEAF OF BLEPHARISPERMUM SUBSESSILE DC. (ASTERACEAE) Jadhav Amruta, Acharya Rabinarayan, Chandola H M, Harisha CR 165-171 A CLINICAL STUDY ON SHRINGYADI CHURNA WITH AND WITHOUT PRANAYAMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TAMAKA SHWASA (BRONCHIAL ASTHMA) Benjwal Shobha 172-177 PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDY OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTION OF HARITAKI PREPARATIONS ON WISTAR RATS IN HEMORRHOIDS (PILES) Pampattiwar S P, Adwani N V, Sitaram Bulusu, Paramkusha Rao M

178-182

Case Study SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS: A CASE STUDY IN AYURVEDIC SETTINGS Mahesh M P, Niranjan Y, Mayya Jagadeesha A

183-188

COVER PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY: DR. HARI VENKATESH K R, PLANT ID – LEAFLET BASE OF PTEROCARPUS MARSUPIUM ROXB., OF THE FAMILY LEGUMINOSAE PLACE – KOPPA, CHIKKAMAGALUR DISTRICT, KARNATAKA, INDIA


Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 126–134 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Research article EFFECTS OF THE FRESH LEAVES OF SPONDIAS MOMBIN L. ON MILK PRODUCTION OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) EWES AND THEIR LAMB’S GROWTH PERFORMANCE Akouèdégni C G1*, I. Gbégo Tossa2, Ahoussi E3, Hounzangbé-Adoté M S4 1, 4

Laboratory of Ethnopharmacology and Animal Health, Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Abomey, 01 BP 526, Cotonou, Benin Republic. 2 Scientific Direction of National Institute of agricultural research of Benin (INRAB), BP 128 Porto-Novo, Benin 3 Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of University of Abomey, BP 2009, Abomey-Calavi, Benin. *Corresponding Author: E-mail: akouedegniguenole@gmail.com; akouedegniguenole@yahoo.fr; Tel: 0022995177790 Received: 30/01/2013; Revised: 23/02/2013; Accepted: 26/02/2013

ABSTRACT The high pre weaning mortality recorded in West African Dwarf lambs is caused by insufficient breast milk. To reduce this pre weaning mortality, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Spondias mombin leaves on ewe’s milk production and growth performance of theirs lambs in southern Benin. The assay was conducted on 18 lactating ewes divided into three homogeneous groups of 6 animals each who received supplementation of leaves of this plant. The resulted outcomes indicate that the leaves of Spondias mombin have a significant effect on milk production of ewes and lambs weight gain. The average value of 94.00; 94.67 and 68.67 g/day were found in group 1, group 2 and control group, respectively. However, both types of treatment had similar effects on milk production of ewes and growth of lamb. The increase in milk production was on an average 36.40% and 37.2% in group 1 and group 2 respectively. Treatments by leaves of Spondias mombin had no significant effect on live weight change of ewes during lactation (p > 0.05). Also, the leaves of Spondias mombin had no significant effect on pH and ash content, protein and milk fat. This difference was significant for dry matter content of milk. KEY WORDS: WAD sheep, Spondias mombin, milk production, lamb growth, Benin.

Cite this article: Akouèdégni C G, I. Gbégo Tossa, Ahoussi E, Hounzangbé-Adoté M S (2013), Effects of the fresh leaves of Spondias mombin L. on milk production of West African Dwarf (WAD) ewes and their lamb’s growth performance, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 126–134

Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||


Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 126–134

INTRODUCTION Medicinal plants have been used for centuries as remedies for human diseases because they contain components of therapeutic value (Nostro et al., 2000; Tanaka, 2002). In Republic of Benin, 80% of the population being unable uses the traditional medicines to sustain their primary health care needs Deleke Koko et al., (2011). Lactogenic plants are most of the medicinal plants that were used by traditional healers. The women with milk production deficiencies traditionally use some of these lactogenic plants to induce milk production or to increase milk yield. Breastfeeding in the first six months of life stimulates babies’ immune systems and protects them from diarrhea and acute respiratory infections (UNICEF, 2006). Milk is a food that is of great biological significance for lamb from the moment they are born and at weaning. The West African Dwarf (WAD) ewe is a poor milker, kept exclusively for meat, as the ewe’s milk yield barely suffices to feed the lambs. Hence, lamb mortality is high in this breed, 20% according to Gbangboché et al., (2005). Nowadays, different plants found in nature are widely used in different fields including medicine, pharmaceutics, food and health industries, but these plants are not widely used in veterinary. According to Mirzaei F and Hari Venkatesh K R (2012), ethno-veterinary alternatives are an option for small-scale livestock farmers who cannot use allopathic drugs or for those larger conventional farmers whose economic circumstances prevent the use of veterinary services for minor health problems of livestock. Spondias mombin (family: Anacardiaceae) is a plant that is used for leaf, bark, roots and seeds. A juice of crushed leaves and powder of dried leaves of S. mombin are used to treat wounds, inflammations and abortifacients (Ayoka, 2008). Spondias mombin has been reported to be anti-helmintic (Ademola et al., 2005) and anti-malarial (Caraballo et al., 2004). The traditional healers in Nigeria recommend Spondias mombin to have lactogenic activity

(Oguike, 2008). Considering the extensive utilization of S. mombin in traditional medicine, the study is designed to evaluate the effect of fresh leaves of Spondias mombin on the WAD ewes to improve their milk production to reduce lambs mortality. MATERIALS AND METHODS Study environment The Sheep Research Center of Faculty of Agronomy Sciences is located in the University of Abomey Calavi in the town of Abomey Calavi near Cotonou. The climate is of guinean type with two dry seasons (from November to March, July to September) and two rainy seasons (from March to July, September to November). The average rainfall is 1200 mm per year and the annual temperature ranges from 23°C to 30°C. Collection of Plant material Spondias mombin (Anacardiaceae), aerial parts (leaves) were collected from AbomeyCalavi, in June 2010 and were identified in Laboratory of Applied Ecology (Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of AbomeyCalavi, Benin). The dose of leaves of the plant (100 g/animal) administered was based on the quantity of leaves (100 g of fresh leaves) used by traditional healers in the treatment of milk production deficiencies in the women. Management of animals Eighteen (18) lactating WAD ewes, in the 2 lactating season and weighing an average 14.2 ± 1.52 Kg were used in this experiment. Animals were housed in pens and lambs were kept with their dams and remained with them until their weaning at three months of age. They were treated against ecto and endoparasites and equally vaccinated against pests. Ewes were divided into three groups (six animals each) and were assigned at random to receive one of the treatments using complete randomized block design. The treatments included: nd

 Control group: received no treatment.

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 126–134

 Group1: Oral administration of Spondias mombin leaves - 100 g/animal/day for 3 days at the beginning of lactation.  Group2: Oral administration of Spondias mombin leaves - 100 g/animal/day for the whole lactating period. Animals grazed from 11 AM to 5 PM (for 6 h) on improved pastures consisting of Panicum maximum C1. The ewes received extra cotton oil cake protein of 200 g per day. They also received mineral supplements in the form of licks and water ad libitum throughout the trial period. Data collection For three months, milk production was recorded once in every two weeks, which began a week after lambing and hand milking was done once a day (6:30 AM). On the day of collection, lambs were isolated from their mothers at 6 PM. The next morning, ewes were hand milked before sent to the pasture. During the experimental period, the fresh milk samples were collected at a month’s interval in each animal. The pH was determined immediately after collecting the samples using a pH meter INOLAB 730. The chemical composition of the milk was determined in the laboratory of chemistry, Agricultural Research Center of Agonkanmè (INRAB). Total solids, protein, ash total and fat were determined in the laboratory using the procedures of AOAC (1990). The body weight of lambs were measured and recorded. Every two weeks, the lambs were weighed before feeding in the morning. Average daily gain (ADG) of lambs was calculated to compare the growth of lambs between groups. The body weight of ewes was also measured once a month. Statistical analysis The means and standard errors of the means of milk production, milk chemical composition, body weight of ewe as well as those of ADG

were determined. Statistical analysis of the differences between mean values obtained for treatments was performed using Minitab. Data were subjected to one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey- Kramer multiple comparison test. In all cases, p values ≤ 0.05 were regarded as statistical significance. RESULTS Milk production From the first week up to the ninth week of lactation, the daily milk production in groups 1 and 2 was higher than control groups. From the ninth week to the end of lactation, the daily milk production was similar in three groups (Figure 1). This is evident on the lactation Table 1. The daily milk production was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in groups 1 and 2 than Control group (p < 0.05) from the beginning to 7th week of lactation. The daily milk production at 7th week was 83.80; 85.56 g/day and 66.97 g/day in Group 1, Group 2 and control group, respectively (Table 1). From the 9th week to the end of lactation, the daily milk production is similar in all groups (p > 0.05). Body weight of lambs and ewes The body weight of lambs increased gradually and similarly in three groups during the first 2 weeks (Figure 2). After the first two weeks, this increase was much more pronounced in the lambs of groups1 and 2 (weaning body weight >8.5 Kg) than control group (weaning body weight <7.5 Kg). Analysis of variance (Table 3) shows that the average daily gain (ADG) in 0–15days and 15–30 days was significantly higher in the groups 1 and 2 than Control group (ADG in 0– 15days: 94 g/day; 94.67 g/day for Group 1 and 2 respectively, against 68.67 g/day for control group) ( p< 0.05) (Table 3). This difference is not significant in 30–45days, 45–60days, 60– 75days and 75–90 days (p > 0.05) in all the three groups. The ADG of lamb was comparable in Group 1 and Group 2.

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 126–134

Figure 1: Curves of lactation of ewes according to week of lactation and treatments 130

Variable Group1 Group2 Control

Daily milk production (g)

120 110 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 0

2

4

6 Week of lactation

8

10

12

Table 1. Daily milk production (g) (Mean ± Standard deviation) Week

Control

Group1

Group2

Meaning

1

82.00 ± 6.49 b

128.93 ± 19.44 a

130.60 ± 7.44 a

*

3

75.18 ± 5.79 b

107.63 ± 13.77 a

114.00 ± 11.16 a

*

5

68.33 ± 5.78 b

88.49 ± 13.22 a

95.60 ± 7.33 a

*

7

66.97 ± 4.23 b

83.80 ± 15.06 a

85.56 ± 10.73 a

*

9

58.31 ± 5.24 a

69.00 ± 4.18 a

70.60 ± 3.21 a

11

45.11 ± 6.83 a

52.60 ± 7.86 a

57.00 ± 8.60 a

* = p < 0.05 Table 2. Milk physico-chemical composition (Mean ± Standard deviation) Parameters Ph

Control

Group1

Group2

6.94 ± 0.01a

6.94 ± 0.01a

6.96 ± 0.01a

14.15 ± 0.04b 2.09 ± 0.11a

14.13 ± 0.05b 2.13 ± 0.15a

Total solid TS (%) 15.06 ± 0.22a Ash content (% TS) 2.04 ± 0.09a Protein (% TS)

5.22 ± 0.12a

5.06 ± 0.01a

5.02 ± 0.03a

Fat (%TS)

6.53 ± 0.32a

6.46 ± 0.28a

6.31 ± 0.21a

* = p < 0.05

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Meaning

*


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The sex of the lamb had significant effect on average daily gain (ADG) of lamb in 0– 15 days (85.24 g/day for female against 95.00 g/day for male) (p < 0.05) (Table 3). However, the sex of lamb had no effect on average daily gain (ADG) of lamb at 15– 30 days, 30–45days, 60–5days and 75–90days (p > 0.05). Also the treatments and sex of lamb had no effect on initial and final body weight of ewe (p > 0.05) (Table 3). Milk physico-chemical composition The pH of milk found no difference in the three groups making it statistically

insignificant (p > 0.05) (Table 2). Regarding the chemical composition, it was noticed that the milk of ewes in control group contained significantly less water compared to groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.05). The average value of 15.06; 14.15 and 14.13 were found for total solids in control group, Group 1 and Group 2 respectively (Table 2). The ash content, protein and fat were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05) (Table 2). The protein was 5.22; 5.06 and 5.02 in control group, Group 1 and Group 2 respectively (Table 2).

Table 3: Body weight, Average Daily body weight Gain (ADG) (Mean ± Standard deviation) Treatments Variables

Group1

Group2

ADG of lamb (g/day)

(6)

(6)

Sex Control

Female

(6)

(8)

Male (10)

0--15days

94.00 ± 9.25 a

94.67 ± 4.47 a

68.67 ± 6.41 b

85.24 ± 7.90 a

95.00 ± 6.67 b

15--30days

108.01 ± 10.38 a

111.34 ± 7.67 a

94.00 ± 7.23 b

99.05 ± 10.84 a

107.92 ± 9.75a

30–45days

90.00 ± 9.72 a

94.00 ± 9.83 a

89.34 ± 7.60 a

81.43 ± 11.03 a

90.00 ± 12.60 a

45--60days

82.67 ± 4.94 a

85.34 ± 8.37 a

78.67 ± 2.98 a

80.96 ± 4.18 a

83.34 ± 7.56 a

60--75days

54.00 ± 6.41 a

60.00 ± 4.71 a

52.67 ± 9.25 a

55.77 ± 10.13a

55.42 ± 4.34 a

75--90days

40.67 ± 9.25 a

41.34 ± 8.01 a

35.34 ± 7.30 a

38.57 ± 9.00 a

39.59 ± 7.86 a

(6)

(6)

(6)

(8)

(10)

Ewes Body weight (kg) Day of birth 30 days

13.55 ± 0.87 a

14.20 ± 1.55 a

14.35 ± 0.57 a

13.63 ±1.38 a

14.31 ± 0.76a

13.96 ±0.79 a

14.90 ±1.63 a

14.87 ± 0.61 a

14.18 ± 1.47 a

14.84 ± 0.81 a

60 days

14.31 ± 0.89 a

15.22 ± 1.49 a

15.77 ± 0.79 a

14.73 ± 1.57 a

15.25 ± 0.83 a

90 days

14.85 ± 0.70 a

16.02 ± 1.33 a

16.42 ± 1.04 a

15.48 ± 1.41 a

15.95 ± 1.10 a

a, b, c = Means with different superscript letters on the same row differ significantly (p < 0.05).

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 126–134

Figure 2. Lamb body weight according to age and treatments 9 Variable Control Group 1 Group 2

8

Body weight (kg)

7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

2

4

6 Age (week)

8

10

12

DISCUSSION The floristic and ethnobotanic aspects of lactogenic plants have been studied extensively (Bailey and Day, 2004; Wynn and Fougere, 2007); however, little is known about their biological activities. In this study Spondias mombin was investigated for its activity on milk production. Our results on milk production indicate that the leaves of Spondas mombin significantly stimulated milk production in treated ewes compared to control group. This activity of the leaves of S. mombin is due to the ability of leaves to stimulate the hormones that initiate milk biosynthesis (Houdebine, 2007) and causing development of breast tissue (Lompo-Ouedraogo et al., 2004). The presence of steroidal, saponins, sapogenins and tannins constituents in leaves of Spondias mombin (Njoku and akumefula 2007; Igwe 2010) contributes in its lactogenic effect (Goyal et al., 2003; Mirzaei F and Hari Venkatesh K R, 2012). The increase in milk production was on an average 36.40% and 37.2% in group 1 and group 2 respectively. Our results were comparable to those of Mishra (2006) and Oguike (2008). Mishra (2006) and Oguike (2008) show that Galega officianalis herb and Spondias mombin plant can increase milk supply up to 50% and 32.59%, respectively.

The pH of the milk in the three groups is comparable. Regarding the chemical composition, it is noticed that the milk in the control group contains less water. This difference can be explained by several factors, including genetic factors (individual) and the treatments (feed) Atti and Rouissi (2003). Other chemical constituents are identical in the three groups and are statistically insignificant. These results are similar to those reported by Rouissi et al., (2007) in an assay where the soybeans were replaced by horse bean in the feed of ewes. The protein of milk obtained in this study is similar to the one of Adewumi and Olorunnisomo (2009): 5.52% in WAD ewes. Slightly higher values (7.08% from fat and 6.12% from protein) were found in WAD ewes by Ekeocha (2012). This difference could be explained by feeding regimes, ration components and forage, grain ratios that affected milk composition. The positive effect of the treatment (S. mombin) on growth performance of lamb is due to milk production performance of their mothers. The milk consumed by the lambs in treated groups is higher than the milk consumed by the lambs in control group. Aside

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 126–134

from overwhelming importance of milk to humans, ewe’s milk production is the foundation for good lamb growth performance (Ogunwole, 2004). Increased milk intake is significantly associated with increased body weight (Korman, 2001; Niznikowski et al., 2006). As shown in Table 3, effect of sex on growth performance of lamb observed in 0– 15days was significant. As for birth weight, Idris et al., (2010) and Gbangboche (2006) also found significant effect of sex on growth performance. They indicated that in the same managerial conditions, males were significantly heavier than females at birth. In this study, the effect of sex on lamb growth disappears after 15 days. These results disagree with Kumar et al., (2007). This author reported that, the body weight of male lamb was higher than the female lambs at all ages.The results obtained by this author could be explained by the difference in the managerial conditions

(managerial conditions of males differ to managerial conditions of females). CONCLUSION This study on the effect of leaves of Spondias mombin on dairy ewes showed positive results of this plant on milk production and growth performance of the lambs. It was noticed that the two treatments (3 days and continual) had similar effect on the performances of the sheep. It has been concluded that Spondias mombin is believed to assist initiation maternal milk production and not maintain lactation; hence this plant can be considered as an alternative for lactogenic hormones for inducing lactation in WAD ewes. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We thank the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Republic of Benin and the Laboratory of Veterinary and Zoo technical Fisheries Research in Agonkanmè CRA / INRAB for their financial support to this study.

REFERENCES Ademola O, Fagemib O, Idowu SO (2005). Anthelminthic activity of extract of Spondias mombin against gastrointestinal nematodes of sheep: studies in vitro and in vivo. Trop Anim Health Prod., 37(3): 223–235. AOAC (1990). Methods of Analyses, 15th ed, Association of Official Analytical Chemistry, Arlington, VA., pp. 40–50, 237–238. Attin, Rouissi H (2003). La production de lait de brebis Sicilo Sarde: Effet de la nature de pâturage et du niveau de la complémentation. Annales de l’I.N.R.A de Tunisie., 76:209–224. Adewumi OO, Olorunnisomo OA (2009). Milk yield and milk composition of West African dwarf, Yankasa and crossbred sheep in southwest of Nigeria. Livest. Res. Rural Develop., 21 (3); 29–32.

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de la Pendjari, International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences, 5(2), 618–633. Ekeocha AH (2012). Leaf Meal Based Diets during Early and Late Lactation, J Rec Adv Agri, 1(2):43–49. Gbangboche AB, Hornich JL, AdamouN’diaye M, Edorh AP, Fanir F,. Abiola FA, Leroy PL (2005). Caractérisation et maîtrise des paramètres de la reproduction et de la croissance des ovins Djallonké (Ovis amonaries). Ann. Méd. Vét, 149, 170–182. Gbangboche AB, Youssao AKI, Senou M, Adamou-N’diaye M, Ahissou A, Farnir F, Michaux C, Abiola FA, Leroy PL (2006). Examination of non-genetic factors affecting the growth performance of djallonke sheep in soudanian zone at the Okpara breeding farm of Benin. Tropical Animal Health and Production 38:55–64 Goyal RK, Singh J, Harbans (2003). Asparagus racemosus an update, Review. Indian Journal of Medicianl Sciences, 57(9), 408–414. Houdebine LM, (2007). Biologie de la lactation. EMC (Elsevier Masson SAS, Paris), Gynécologie/Obstétrique, 5-008A-30. Idris AO, Kijora C, El-Hag FM, Salih AM (2010). Effect of supplementation on late pregnancy and early lactation of body weight of desert ewes and their lambs, Livestock Research for Rural Development 22 (10) 45–56. Igwe CU, Onyeze GOC, Onwuliri VA, Osuagwu CG, Ojiako AO (2010). Evaluation of the Chemical Compositions of the Leaf of Spondias Mombin Linn from Nigeria; Australian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, 4(5): 706–710.

Korman K (2001). The effect of feeding system (ad libitum or rationed) on the feed conversion rate and weight gain of Merino ram lambs. Arch Tierz 44 SI, 188–240. Kumar S, Mishra AK, Kolte AP, Arora AL, Singh D, Singh VK (2007). Effects of the Booroola (FecB) genotypes on growth performance, ewe’s productivity efficiency and litter size in Garolex Malpura sheep. Animal Reproduction Science, doi:10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.06.023. Lompo-Ouedraogo Z, van der Heide D, van der Beek EM, Hans JM, Swarts, John AM, Matthei j, Laya Sawadogo (2004). Effect of aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica ssp adansonii on milk production and prolactin release in the rat. Journal of Endocrinology .182: 257–266. Mirzaei F, Hari Venkatesh KR (2012). Efficacity of phyto medicines as supplement in feeding practices on ruminant’s performance: A review Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., 1(9): 391–403. Mishra UK, Kanesh JS, Mandal AK, Das RK, Rayaguru K, Parija SC (2006). Potentials of herbal galactogogues in milk production in ruminants, The Indian Cow July-Sept, 2006, pp 44–52. Niznikowski R, Popielarczyk D, Strzelec E, Wojtowski J, Dankow R, Pikul J, Goslawski W, Kuczynska B (2006). The effect of early colostrums collection on selected performance traits in sheep. Arch Tierz 49 SI, 226– 30. Njoku

PC, Akumefula MI (2007). Phytochemical and Nutrient evaluation of Spondias mombin leaves. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition, 6(6): 613–615.

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Nostro A, Germano MP, D’Angelo A, Marino A, Cannatelli MA (2000). Extraction methods and bioautography for evaluation of medicinal plant antimicrobial activity. Lett. Appl. Microbiol. 30(5): 379–385. Oguike MA,. Udeh NA (2008). Influence of ethnovetenary plant Spondias mombin L. on partial daily milk yield (PDM), Haematology and serum biochemistry of lactating West Africa Dwarf ewes. Journal of animal and veterinary advances 7 (5): 585–588. Ogunwole AO (2004). Evaluation of rumen epithelial scrapings of cattle for pregnant, lacating pre-weaned lambs of West African dwarf sheep Ph.D Thesis. Dept. of Animal Science. University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria, 231p.

by field beans improves milk production and affects milk quality in Sicilo Sarde ewes fed concentrate during the suckling period. 12 th seminar of the FAO-CIHEAM SubNetwork on sheep and goat nutrition.11–13 October, Thessaloniki (Greece), 345p. Tanaka H, Sato M, Fujiwara S (2002). Antibacterial activity of isoflavonoids isolated from Erythrina variegata against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Lett. Appl. Microbiol, 35: 228–489. 2002. UNICEF (2006). A report card on nutrition. progress for children. Wynn SG, Fougere BJ (2007). Veterinary Herbal Medicine. St. Louis: Mosby Elsevier.

Rouissi H, Rekik B, Maamouri O, Kammoun M, Ben Gara A (2007). Replacing soya

Source of Support: Nil

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 135–141 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Research article BROAD SPECTRUM ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OFALANGIUM SALVIIFOLIUM FLOWER EXTRACT Ashalatha1, Gopinath S M2* 1, 2

Department Of Biotechnology, Acharya Institute of Technology, Acharya.Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Road, Soladevanahalli, Bangalore-560090, India *Corresponding author: Email: researchgopinath@gmail.com

Received: 10/02/2013; Revised: 22/02/2013; Accepted: 28/02/2013

ABSTRACT The present investigation was aimed to evaluate the broad spectrum antimicrobial and phytochemical analysis of the alcoholic and aqueous extracts derived from the flowers of Alangium salviifolium. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts were prepared and tested on multiple drug resistant Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococci and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gramnegative- (Citrobacter, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter, E. coli and Seratia marcescens) organism. Agar disc diffusion method was used to determine the sensitivity of the test samples and standard antibiotics (Gentamycin, Chloramphenicol, Norfloxacin and Amikacin) were used as reference antibiotics. The results of antimicrobial assays showed that aqueous extract was active against all tested microbial species in inhibiting 10 out of 11 test microorganisms with 08–17 mm zone of inhibition. Citrobacter species which were most resistant to the reference antibiotics was inhibited by the aqueous extract. These results indicated that most of the active constituents (responsible for exerting antibacterial action) in these plants are expected to be soluble in polar solvent. It authenticates that the entire tested microorganism is susceptible to alcohol extracts in inhibiting 04 out of 11 test microorganisms with 04–14 mm zone of inhibition. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of the extract confirms the presence of various phytochemicals like tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, quinines, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, phenols, anthraquinones, steroids, catechin, reducing disaccharide and proteins. The overall results of this study indicate that the extract from Alangium salviifolium flower have medicinally important bioactive compounds and interesting broad spectrum antimicrobial activity against multiple drug resistant bacteria. KEY WORDS: Alangium salviifolium, Broad spectrum antimicrobial activity, phytochemical analysis, aqueous extract, ethanolic extracts, multiple drug resistance

Cite this article: Ashalatha, Gopinath S M (2013), BROAD SPECTRUM ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITIES AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OFALANGIUM SALVIIFOLIUM FLOWER EXTRACT, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 135–141

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 135–141

INTRODUCTION Medicinal herbs are the local heritage with global importance. The expanding bacterial resistance to antibiotics has become a growing concern worldwide (Gardam, M.A. 2000). Multiple drug resistance in both human and plant pathogens has developed due to the indiscriminate use of commercial antimicrobial drugs commonly used in the treatment of infectious diseases. Intensive care physicians consider antibiotic-resistant bacteria a significant or major problem in the treatment of patients (Lepape, A. 2011). The limited life span of antibiotics has rendered a necessity to search for new antimicrobial substances from various sources such as medicinal plants. The majority of rural people has limited access to formal and adequate health services and thus heavily resources to traditional healers. Many indigenous plants have been evaluated and used as a source of many effective and potent drugs against various infectious diseases. Herbal medicines has been in practice since long time as one of the basic treatment for cure of various diseases and show minimum or no side effects and are considered to be safe. A wide range of phyto-chemicals present in plants is known to inhibit bacterial pathogens (Cowan, 1999; Medina et al., 2005; Romero et al., 2005). Phyto-chemicals are secondary metabolites in one or more parts of the medicinal plants. Phyto-chemicals may protect human from various diseases. Phyto-chemicals are non-nutritive plant chemicals that have protective or disease preventive properties. Phyto-chemicals are basically divided into two groups that are primary and secondary metabolites according to their functions in plant metabolism. Primary metabolites comprise common sugars, amino acids, proteins and chlorophyll while secondary metabolites consist of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and so on (D.Kubmarawa, G.A.Ajoku., 2007; Edeoga HA, Okwu DE.,2005). Medicinal plants represent a valuable source for this kind of compounds (Gopinath, S.M., et al., 2011). Alangium salviifolium (L.F.) Wangerin is a deciduous, rambling shrub or a tree belonging

to the family Alangiaceae (Jubie S, Jawahar N., 2008), popularly in Karnataka region it is called as Ankola. Alangiaceae is a monogeneric family of trees and shrubs found in the tropical and subtropical region. A small, thorny deciduous tree/shrub which grows up to a height of 5–10 meters long, bark is yellowish rough and faintly fissured, the leaves are alternate, elliptical oblong, the flowers are yellowish white in axillary fascicles. The flowering season is February to June. The plant is distributed in dry regions, plains and lower hills in India, Africa, Srilanka, Indochina and China. In the Indian subcontinent’s ancient Ayurveda system of medicine, the Alangium salviifolium has extensively been used as a source of traditional remedies for thousands of years. The plant has been reported for its antitubercular, antispasmodic and anticholinesterase activity (Warrier P K, Nambiar, Samakutty., 2005). The Anti-Fertility activity of the stem Bark of Alangium salviifolium in Wistar female rats has also been reported (Murugan V, Shareef H, Ramanathan M., 2000). In this present investigation efforts were made to explore new bioactive compounds and the study of phyto-chemical and broad spectrum antimicrobial activity of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Alangium salviifolium flower against hospital isolates which was identified to be Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococci and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative-(Citrobacter, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Proteus mirabilis, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter, E. coli and Seratia marcescens). Though the availability of the flower is seasonal found only during February-June it has vibrant phyto-chemicals like tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, quinines, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, phenols, anthraquinones, steroids, catechin and broad spectrum antimicrobial treasure in it. MATERIALS & METHODS Experimental Plant Material The proposed material of Alangium salviifolium (AS) flower was procured from

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Turuvekere Taluk, Tumkur district, Karnataka Region, India during March, 2011 with the help of local tribes and was washed thoroughly and shade dried. Preparation of Extracts Preparation of the extract of AS powdered flower is done using ethanol and distilled water. The shade dried coarse powder of the flowers (500 gm) was packed well in soxhlet apparatus and was subjected to continuous hot extraction with 90% ethanol until the completion of the extraction. The extract was filtered while hot and the resultant extract was distilled in vacuum under reduced pressure in order to remove the solvent completely. Similarly, aqueous extract was prepared and stored at 4°C for further study. Phyto-chemical screening Qualitative phyto-chemical analysis of the aqueous and ethanolic extract of AS flower was carried out using standard procedures to identify the constituent carbohydrate moiety (Molisch test, Fehlings test, Barfoeds test, Bials test, Cobalt chloride test, Iodine test), Proteins (Biuret test, millons test), steroids and terpenoids (Liberman- Burchard and Salkowski tests), alkaloids (Mayer’s test), cardiac glycosides (Keller-Kilani test), saponins (foam test), anthraquinone (modified Borntragers test), flavonoids (Shinoda test), tannins and phenols (Ferric chloride test), organic acids (Calcium chloride test), catechin (Ehrlich test), coumarin (alcoholic KOH test) as described by (Sofowara.,1993; Trease and Evans.,1989 and Harborne.,1993). Antimicrobial Activity: Microbial Strains The microorganisms used in the antimicrobial tests are the clinical samples taken from the registered hospitals of Bangalore region and were identified to be Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococci and Staphylococcus epidermidis) and Gram-negative (Citrobacter, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris, Proteus

mirabilis, Klebsiella species, Enterobacter, E.coli and Seratia marcescens). Loop full of the bacterial strain was inoculated in 25 ml of nutrient broth (HiMedia) in a conical flask and incubated at 37°C on a rotary shaker for 24 h to activate the test bacteria. The inoculum size was maintained to be 1×108 cells/ml, and the bacterial strains were maintained on nutrient agar slants for future use at 4°C. Chemicals Gentamycin, Chloramphenicol, Norfloxicin, Amikecin (Alkem Laboratories, India) was used as reference antibiotic (RA) against bacteria and dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) (HiMedia, India) was used as solvent for tested samples. Other chemicals were used of analytical grade of S.D. Fine Chemicals, Mumbai, India. Culture media Mueller Hinton Agar (HiMedia) was used for the antibacterial susceptibility study. The ingredients are weighed and added in 1000 ml distilled water and boiled to dissolve it completely. The pH of media was adjusted to 7.4 ± 0.2 (at 25°C) and sterilized it by autoclaving at 15 lbs pressure (121°C) for 15 min. The solution of the test extracts was prepared at the concentration of 5 mg/ml by dissolving in dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) in the stopper specific gravity bottle and stored in refrigerator. The solution was removed from the refrigerator one hour prior to use and was allowed to warm up to room temperature. Screening for antibacterial properties Antibacterial properties of Alangium salviifolium flower extracts were tested by Agar disc diffusion method (Harborne JB., 1973; Jamine.R.Daisy, 2007; Gopinath S M. et al., 2012). The culture plates were prepared by pouring 20 ml of the Mueller Hinton agar medium into sterile petriplates. 200 µl of inoculum suspension was spread uniformly over the agar medium using sterile L shaped spreader to get a uniform distribution of bacteria. The test extracts (20 µl) (from stock solution of 5 mg/ml) was impregnated into

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 135–141

sterile discs (7 mm) (Hi-Media) and then allowed to dry. The disc was then introduced into the medium which was initially inoculated with the test organism. And as reference antibiotics Gentamycin, Chloramphenicol, Norfloxacin, and Amikacin 50 mcg/ml was used to check multiple drug resistance of the

strain. Then the plates were incubated for 24 h at 37oC. The experiment was performed under strict aseptic conditions. The effectiviness of these extracts was recorded by measuring the diameter of inhibition zone. Triplicate was performed and the experiment was repeated thrice and the results were recorded.

Table 1.Qualitative phyto-chemical analysis of Alangium Salviifolium flower extract Phytochemical compounds

Aqueous extract

Ethanolic extract

Tannins

+

+

Saponins

+

+

Flavonoids

+

+

Alkaloids

+

+

Quinones

+

+

Cardiac Glycosides

+

+

Coumarins

+

+

Phenols

+

+

Anthraquinone

+

Steroids

+

+

Catechin

+

Proteins

+

+

Carbohydrates

+

+

Reducing sugars

+

+

Monosaccharides sugar

Pentose sugar

Hexose sugar

+

+

Polysaccarides

Table 2: Qualitative analysis-Broad Spectrum Antibacterial activity of Alangium Salvifolium flower extracts against multiple drug resistant organism using reference antibiotics Gentamycin, Chloramphenicol, Norfloxacin and Amikacin determined by the agar disc diffusion method Microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus Staphylococcus epidermis Enterococci Pseudomonas aeruginosa Proteus vulgaris Escherichia coli Proteus mirabilis Klebsiella species Citrobacter Seratia marcescens Enterobacter (−): Not active, (+): Active

Gentamycin + + − + − + + + − + +

Chloramphenicol

Norfloxacin

Amikacin

+ + − + + + + + − + +

− − − + + − + + − + +

+ + − + − + + + − + +

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Aqueous Extract + + − + + + + + + + +

Ethanolic Extract + + − − − − + − − + −


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Table 3: Quantitative analysis-Broad Spectrum Antibacterial activity of Alangium Salvifolium flower extracts against multiple drug resistant organism using reference antibiotics Gentamycin, Chloramphenicol, Norfloxacin and Amikacin determined by the agar disc diffusion method

Zone of inhibition (mm) Microorganisms

Gentamycin

Chloramphenicol

Norfloxacin

Amikacin

Aqueous Extract

Ethanolic Extract

Microorganisms Staphylococcus aureus

28

24

0

22

17

14

Staphylococcus epidermis

18

16

0

16

12

11

Enterococci

0

0

0

0

0

0

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

18

16

14

15

08

0

Proteus vulgaris

0

18

16

0

08

0

Escherichia coli

25

26

0

23

09

0

Proteus mirabilis

23

22

16

20

08

08

Klebsiella species

23

21

18

18

12

0

Citrobacter

0

0

0

0

14

0

Seratia marcescens

21

21

22

21

14

04

Enterobacter

24

24

23

21

10

0

(0): No Zone of Inhibition

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The results of qualitative and quantitative antibacterial screening of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Alangium salviifolium flower using four different antibiotics (Gentamycin, Chloramphenicol, Norfloxacin and Amikacin) as a reference is presented in Table 2 and 3. Antimicrobial screening assay against bacteria showed that aqueous extract had the most distinct effect on most of the tested organism in inhibiting 10 out of 11 test microorganisms with 08–17 mm zone of inhibition. ‘Citrobacter species which were most resistant to the reference antibiotics was inhibited by the aqueous extract’. These results indicated that most of the active constituents (responsible for exerting antibacterial action) in these plants are expected to be soluble in polar solvent. It authenticates that the entire tested microorganism is susceptible to alcohol extracts in inhibiting 04 out of 11 test microorganisms with 04–14 mm zone of inhibition. Aqueous extract is effective against all tested microorganisms except Enterococci

having comparable results with reference antibiotics used. The highest antibacterial activity of 17 mm in Staphylococcus aureus and least consistent activity is recorded by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus vulgaris and Proteus mirabilis. Alcohol extract was susceptible for the test organism except Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Proteus mirabilis, and Seratia marcescens. The phyto-chemical screening and qualitative estimation of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Alangium salviifolium flower are presented in Table 1. The Aqueous extract showed that they are rich in tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, quinines, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, phenols, anthraquinones, steroids, catechin, reducing disaccharide and proteins. Whereas ethanolic extract shows the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, quinines, cardiac glycosides, coumarins, phenols, steroids, were reducing disaccharide and proteins with the absence of anthraquinones and catechin.

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CONCLUSION The results of present study conclude that the ethanolic and aqueous extract of Alangium salviifolium flowers have a high significance for its valuable secondary metabolites. Plant extracts have antibacterial potential against the clinical samples which had taken from hospital. Water as solvent is better for extraction of

bioactive compounds. Plant extracts that inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms may have potential application as therapeutic agents. Exploitation of these pharmacological properties involves further investigation of these active ingredients of an implementation technique of extraction, purification, separation crystallization and identification and can further use as potential drug.

REFERENCES Cowan, M.M. (1999), Plant products as antimicrobial agents. Clin. Microbiol Rev., 12(4): 564–582.

Harborne JB (1973). Phytochemical methods, London. Chapman and Hall, Ltd. pp. 49–188.

D.Kubmarawa, G.A.Ajoku, N.M.Enwerem and D.A. Okorie. (2007), Preliminary phytochemical and antimicrobial screening of 50 medicinal plants from Nigeria, Afr.J.Biotechnol, 6, 1690– 1696.

Jamine. R, Daisy. P and Selvekumar.B.N., (2007). Research Journal of Microbiology.2 (4):369–374

Edeoga HA, Okwu DE, and Mbaebie BO. (2005), Phytochemical constituent of some Nigerian Medicinal plants, African journal of Biotechnology academic journals; 4: 685–688. Gardam, M.A. (2000). Is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus an emerging community pathogen? A review of the literature. Can. J. Infect. Dis. 11:202– 211. Gopinath, S.M., Suneetha, T. B., Singh, Sumer (2012). Evaluation of effect of methanolic and aqueous extracts of Punica granatum against bacterial pathogens causing bovine mastitis, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen.Med., Vol.1(10): 496–502. Gopinath, S.M., Suneetha, T. B., Mruganka, V.D. (2011), chemical prophylaxis and antibacterial activity of Methanolic and aqueous extracts of some medicinal plants against bovine mastitis, International journal of Advanced Biological Research., Vol.1 (1): 93–95.

Jubie S, Jawahar N, Koshy R, Gowramma B, Murugan V, Suresh B, (2008). Antiarthritic activity of bark extracts of Alangium salviifoliumWang. Rasayan Journal of Chemistry 1, 433–436. Lepape, A., D.L. Monnet on behalf of participating members of the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine (ESICM). 2009. Experience of European intensive care physicians with infections due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Euro Surveill. 14(45): pii=19393. Accessed November 10, (2011), at http://www.eurosurveillance.org/ViewA rticle.aspx?ArticleId=19393. Medina, A.L., M.E. Lucero, F.O. Holguin, R.E.Estell, J.F Posakony, J. Simon, and M. O’Connell. (2005). Composition and antimicrobial activity of Anemopsis californica leaf oil. J. Agri. Food Chem. 53:8694–8698. Murugan V, Shareef H, Rama Sarma G V S, Ramanathan M, Suresh B, (2000). AntiFertility activity of the stem bark of Alangium salvifolium (Linn.) Wang in

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Wistar Female Rats. Indian Journal of Pharmacology 32, 388–389.

Spectrum Books Ltd, Ibadan, Nigeria. p. 289.

Romero, C, D., S.E. Choph, G. Buck, E. Martinez, M. Garcia, and L. Bixby (2005). Antibacterial properties of common herbal remedies of the southwest. J. Ethnopharmacol. 99:253– 257.

Trease GE, Evans WC (1989). Pharmacognsy. 11th edn. Brailliar Tiridel Can. Macmillian publishers.

Sofowara A (1993). Medicinal plants and Traditional medicine in Africa.

Source of Support: Nil

Warrier PK, Nambiar, Samakutty, (2005). Indian Medicinal Plants, a compendium of 500 species. Orient Longman Ltd, Chennai. pp 404–406.

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 142–151 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Research article INDUCTION OF APOPTOSIS IN MYELOGENOUS LEUKEMIC K562 CELLS BY ETHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF ANNONA MURICATA L. Ezirim, A U1, Okochi, V I2, James, A B3, Adebeshi, O A4 , Ogunnowo S5 Odeghe, O B6* 1, 2, 3, 5

Department of Biochemistry, University of Lagos, Akoka, Nigeria Department of Cell biology, University of Lagos, Akoka, Nigeria 6 Department of Biochemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. *Corresponding Author: Email Address: bensandym@yahoo.com 4

Received: 31/01/2013; Revised: 02/03/2013; Accepted: 05/03/2013

ABSTRACT Prevalence of cancer, especially in Nigeria, is silently growing at exponential rates due to its nature and numerous risk factors associated with its development. Most chemotherapeutic drugs used today are expensive and toxic to normal cells, hence the need for alternative treatment options. In this present study, the efficacy of ethanolic extracts of Annona muricata leaves for its cytotoxicity potential and induction of apoptosis in K562 cancer cells, was investigated. Phytochemical screening verified presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins, anthraquinones and cardiac glycosides. Using Neutral red uptake assay, the ethanolic extract showed peak cytotoxicity levels (P<0.001) at 2.5 mg/ml which decreased with increased concentrations. Caspase-3 activity was significantly enhanced (P<0.001) during apoptosis induced by the extract at low quantities, with the peak activity shown at 50 µg/ml. Apoptosis was confirmed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) assay. Caspase-3 activity and TUNEL results suggested that the ethanolic extract of Annona muricata induced apoptosis in the myelogenous leukemic K562 cell line. This supports the therapeutic application of Annona muricata to be considered as a natural product source for the development of pro-apoptotic drugs. KEYWORDS: Apoptosis, K562 cells and Annona muricata

Cite this article: Ezirim, A U, Okochi, V I, James, A B, Adebeshi, O A, Ogunnowo S, Odeghe, O B (2013), INDUCTION OF APOPTOSIS IN MYELOGENOUS LEUKEMIC K562 CELLS BY ETHANOLIC LEAF EXTRACT OF ANNONA MURICATA L., Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 142–151

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 142–151

INTRODUCTION Cancer remains one of the most dreaded diseases causing an astonishingly high death rate, second only to cardiac arrest (Shafi, et al., 2009). Although overall cancer incidence rates in the developing world are half those seen in the developed world in both sexes, the overall cancer mortality rates are generally similar (Jemal, et al., 2011). Cancer survival tends to be poorer in developing countries, most likely because of a combination of a late stage at diagnosis and limited access to timely and standard treatment (Jemal, et al., 2011). In 2000, approximately 256,000 children and adults around the world developed some form of leukaemia, and 209,000 died from it (Mathers, et al., 2001). The myeloid leukaemia are a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by infiltration of the blood, bone marrow and other tissues by neoplastic cells of the hematopoietic system (Kasper, et al., 2005). Plant medicines are considered safer and better than synthetic drugs, since the ingredients in plants such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals are also of body composition (Kilham, 1999). The extensive repertoire of traditional medicinal knowledge systems from various parts of the world are being re-investigated for their healing properties. The fact that conventional and newly emerging treatment procedures like chemotherapy, catalytic therapy, photodynamic therapy and radiotherapy have not succeeded in reverting the outcome of the disease to any drastic extent, has made researchers investigate alternative treatment options (Shafi, et al., 2009). An alternative treatment approach is the induction of apoptosis in tumour cells using herbs. Apoptosis is characterised by distinct morphologic changes, including cell shrinkage, membrane blebbing, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation, and the formation of apoptotic bodies (Wyllie, 1997). Upstream initiator caspases including caspase-9 activate downstream effector caspases such as caspase3, playing a pivotal role in the induction of

apoptosis by various stimuli (Wyllie, 1997). The hallmark of apoptosis is DNA fragmentation into approximately 200 bp by the action of Caspase activated Dnase (CAD) (Pirnia, et al., 2002). This is usually assayed for ISEL, TUNEL. Annona muricata L. is the most tropical semi deciduous tree with the largest fruits of the Annona genus. It is also native to SubSaharan Africa countries that lie within the tropics (Zafra-Polo, et al., 1998; Alali, et al., 1999). Traditional ethno-botanical uses in the Peruvian Amazon include its actions as a hypotensive, cardiodepressant (Carbajal, et al., 1991), antispasmodic, anticonvulsant (Nâ€&#x;Gouemo, et al., 1997) and sedative (Vasques, 1990) agent, besides other numerous documented properties as an emetic, febrifuge, vermifuge, nervine, decongestant, Galactagogue and poison antidote (de Feo, 1992). Phytochemically, A. muricata is rich in miscellaneous lactones and isoquinoline alkaloids (Alali, et al., 1999). It contains many active compounds and chemicals; these are the natural phytochemicals known as annonaceous acetogenins (Alali, et al., 1999; Kojima & Tanaka, 2009). Studies have demonstrated their antihyperglycemic (Adeyemi et al., 2009a), antihyperlipidemic (Adeyemi et al., 2009b), antimalarial (Antoun, et al., 1993; Gbeassor, et al., 1990), antiparasitic (de Feo, 1992; Jaramilo, et al., 2000; Bories, et al., 1991), antibacterial (Khan, 1998), insecticidal (Alali, et al., 1998; Guadano, et al., 2000), molluscidal (Santos & Sant'Ana, 2001), antiviral (Antoun, et al., 1999) and most importantly, their anticancer properties (Zafra-Polo, et al., 1998; Alali, et al., 1999; Yang, et al., 2009). Specific acetogenins in extracts of A. muricata have been reported to be selectively toxic in vitro to certain types of tumour cells including: lung carcinoma cell lines; human breast solid tumour lines; prostate adenocarcinoma; pancreatic carcinoma cell lines; colon adenocarcinoma cell lines; mammary adenocarcinoma cell lines; liver

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cancer cell lines; human lymphoma cell lines; and multi-drug resistant human breast adenocarcinoma (Alali, et al., 1999; Yang, et al., 2009; Liaw, 2002). It is generally accepted that the mode of action of acetogenins is the inhibition of NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase (complex I) in mitochondria. Inhibition suppresses ATP production, especially for cancer cells with high metabolic levels, leading to apoptosis (Morré, et al., 1995; Zeng & McLaughlin, 1996; Oberlies, et al., 1997). Considering the significance of this cancer sub-type, the objective of this study was to investigate, using K562 cells, the in vitro apoptotic activity of the ethanolic extracts of Annona muricata leaves. K562 cells were the first human immortalised myelogenous leukaemia line to be established (Lozzio, et al., 1981). To determine the plant‟s antiproliferative activity, we examined the effects of the varying concentrations of ethanolic extracts of Annona muricata on cell viability using the neutral red uptake assay. Apoptosis was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) assay and Caspase-3 activity assay. MATERIALS AND METHODS Plant material Fresh leaves of Annona muricata leaves were collected in May 2010, from Ibeme, Isiala-Mbano in Imo State of Nigeria. They were identified and authenticated by Mr. T. I. Adeleke of Pharmacognosy Department, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Nigeria. Preparation of organic extract A. muricata leaves were oven-dried for five days. The dried leaves were powdered in a warring blender and extracted with 85% ethanol using the Soxlet apparatus. The organic phase was later evaporated under reduced pressure to obtain a dried extract.

Phytochemical analysis The crude ethanolic extract of A. muricata was subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening for identification of basic classes of active chemical constituents. The phytochemical analysis was carried out using reported standard methods (Trease & Evans, 1989). Maintenance of K562 cell line K562 cells were procured from Dr. Wolfgang Fisher of Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munchen, Germany. Cell lines were maintained and propagated in RPMI medium containing 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) and 1% penicillin/streptomycin. Cells were cultured and maintained at 37ºC in a humidified atmosphere of 5% CO2. Cell viability assay Cell viability was assessed using neutral red uptake assay (Borenfreund & Puerner, 1984). Neutral red, a weak cationic dye that penetrates cell membranes by non-ionic diffusion, accumulates at the anionic sites in the lysosomal matrix. Briefly, cells were seeded in 96-well tissue culture plates and tested for 6 h with varying concentrations of 0.625 mg/ml, 1.25 mg/ml, 2.5 mg/ml and 5.0 mg/ml of the extract in triplicates. The plates were then incubated for 2 h at with serum-free medium containing neutral red. The cells were subsequently washed, the neutral red dye was extracted from each plate and optical densities were determined at 540 nm on a multi-well spectrophotometer. Caspase 3 assay Apoptosis was induced for 12 h and a negative control set at the same time. The cells were collected, washed twice with PBS (phosphate buffer saline) and to a required number of collected cells; a fresh cold prepared lysis buffer was added. The cells were incubated on ice for 20–60 minutes, and vortexed 3–4 times for 10 seconds, each time following centrifugation at 10,000 rpm at 4oC

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for one minute. A small quantity of supernatant was obtained to assay the protein concentration by the Bradford method. To assess Caspase-3 activity, the Caspase-3 Colorimetric Assay Kit (Genscript, USA) was used following the instructions of the manufacturer. The Caspase3 Colorimetric Assay Kit is based on the spectrophotometric detection of the chromophore p-nitroanilide (pNA) after cleavage from the labelled substrate DEVDpNA. The pNA was quantified at 405 nm. TUNEL assay To evaluate apoptosis in the cells, the TUNEL Apoptosis Detection Kit (Genscript, USA) was used following the instructions of the manufacturer. Cells were exposed to the organic extract on chamber slides for 12 h and then fixed with a fixation solution (4% paraformaldehyde in PBS, pH 7.4, freshly prepared) for 1 h at 15–25°C. The slides were rinsed thrice with PBS, and incubated subsequently on ice following procedure with blocking solution (3% H2O2 in methanol) and permeabilization solution (0.1% Triton X-100 and 0.1% sodium citrate in water, freshly prepared). Before beginning the labelling procedures, the fixed and permeabilized cells were incubated with 100 μl DNase I Solution (500 U/ml DNase 1 [grade 1] in 1X DNase buffer) for 10 min at 15–25°C to induce DNA strand degradation. During the labelling procedure, biotinylated nucleotide is labelled at the DNA 3'-OH ends using the recombinant Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase (rTDT); then horseradish peroxidise-labelled Streptavidin (Streptavidin-HRP) is bound to these biotinylated nucleotides, which are detected using the peroxidase substrate, hydrogen peroxide and 3,3'-Diaminobenzidine (DAB), a stable chromogen. Using this procedure, apoptotic nuclei are stained dark brown. Statistical analysis Graphpad Prism 5.0 was used for data analysis. The results of each series of experiments (performed in triplicates) are expressed as the mean ± standard error of mean

(SEM). The significance of difference in the means of all parameters reported was determined using ANOVA and Bonferroni Post Hoc test. RESULTS Phytochemical analysis The phytochemical screening of the ethanolic leaf extract of A. muricata revealed strong presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins – hydrolysable and condensing tannins – anthraquinone glycosides and saponins; and weak traces of cyanogenic glycosides and cardiac glycosides. Neutral red uptake analysis Cytotoxicity test was carried out on the ethanolic extract of A. muricata leaves via neutral red uptake method in a dose-dependent manner, shown in Fig.1. Maximum cytotoxicity of the extract on K562 cells were observed at 2.5 mg/ml, which revealed a significant increase (P<0.001) compared to the positive control (H202). At higher concentrations of the control, a significant decrease (P<0.01) in cytotoxicity was detected of the ethanolic extract. Caspase-3 assay The results, shown in Fig.2, showed a steady increase in Caspase-3 activity, attaining its peak at 50µg/ml which was highly significant (P<0.001) in comparison to the positive control. A decline in caspase-3 activity was evident with increased concentrations but still showed significant (P<0.05) values. TUNEL assay The TUNEL assay (TdT- mediated dUTP Nick End Labelling) was developed as a method to identify individual cells that are undergoing apoptosis by labelling the ends of the degrading DNA with the polymerase terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) (Heatwole, 1999). After the induction with 0.625 mg/ml, 1.25 mg/ml, 2.5 mg/ml and

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5.0 mg/ml ethanolic extracts of Annona muricata, K562 cells were stained dark brown under the light microscope. This observation, as shown in Fig.3, was assessed in comparison with results obtained from the positive control

(DNAse 1 solution). The results confirm that apoptosis had taken place in K562 cells when induced with the leaf ethanolic extract of Annona muricata.

Fig.1. Neutral red uptake cytotoxicity assay of ethanolic leaf extract of A.muricata 100

Extract H2O2

90

% Cytotoxicity

80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10

) 0m M g/ m

l( 25 g/ m

5. 0m

1. 25 m

2. 5m

g/ m

l( 50

0m M

) l( 17 5m

M

M ) 87 .5 m g/ m l( 0. 62 5m

)

0

Extract concentrations

Fig.2. Plot of absorbance against concentration of Caspase-3 activity during apoptosis of K562 cells induced by leaf ethanolic extract of Annona muricata.

Caspase OD405nm

8

Extract H2O2

6 4 2

M 20 0m

M 10 0m

M 50 m

25 m

M

0

Protein concentration

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Fig.3. TUNEL assay results after the induction of apoptosis in K562 cell line (Ă—100). Arrows indicate artefacts. Keys: (A) Negative Control; (B) Hydrogen Peroxide (Positive inducer); (C) DNAse I (Positive control); (D) 1.25 mg/ml ethanolic extract of A. muricata

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

DISCUSSION The phytochemical investigation on ethanolic leaf extract of A. muricata confirmed its diverse traditional ethnobotanical uses derived from its long recorded indigenous use and recent documented medicinal properties (de Feo, 1992).

Cytotoxic drugs that exert their maximum cytotoxicity on cancer cells during the S-phase of the cycle prevent cells from progressing through the cell cycle to the S-phase; this is accomplished by sublethal inhibition of RNA and protein synthesis (Craig & Stitzel, 2003). Studies have shown that cancer cells at the S phase of their cell cycle are more vulnerable to the compounds that have been, and are still

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being, isolated from A. muricata called Annonaceous acetogenins (Yuan, 2003). In this present study, it is clearly shown that A. muricata has cytotoxic effects on the myelogenous leukemic K562 cell line. Maximum cytotoxicity of the extract on K562 cells were observed at 2.5 mg/ml, which revealed a significant difference (P<0.001) to the corresponding molarity of the positive control. This cytotoxic property decreased significantly (P<0.01) at higher concentrations of the control. This observation concurs with some clinical findings which have suggested that at very low dosages, annonaceous acetogenins of A. muricata exhibited highly toxic effects particularly to ovarian, breast, cervical, bladder and skin cancer cell lines (Alali, et al., 1999). Another study observed that some of the derivatives within the different structural types and some positional isomers showed remarkable selectivities among certain cell lines (Yang, et al., 2009). Lack of selective toxicity is the major limiting factor in the chemotherapy of cancer (Craig & Stitzel, 2003). The TUNEL assay results clearly shows that apoptosis had been induced by the ethanolic leaf extract of A. muricata on the myelogenous leukemic K562 cell line. This outcome was compared with results obtained from the positive control (DNAse 1 solution), as apoptotic nuclei was stained dark brown.

Furthermore, the results of the Caspase-3 activity further substantiated that apoptosis had taken place. The activation of Caspase-3 is an important downstream event in apoptosis (Crow, et al., 2004). Increased caspase-3 activity was noted to be directly proportional to increased concentration of the ethanolic extract of A. muricata reaching a peak at 50 µg/ml. The least (25 mM) and the highest (200 mM) concentrations of protein obtained during the apoptosis induced by the extract, showed no significant difference (P>0.05) to the control. Great progress has been made in the understanding of the basic mechanisms of apoptosis and the gene products involved (Wyllie, 1997). The regulation of apoptosis in normal and malignant cells has become an area of intensive study in cancer research (Johnstone, et al., 2000). Agents that suppress the proliferation of malignant cells by inducing apoptosis may represent a useful mechanistic approach to both cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy (Khan & Mlugwana, 1999). CONCLUSION It is evident in this present study that the significant increase in Caspase-3 activity and TUNEL assay results suggest that the ethanolic leaf extract of Annona muricata had induced apoptosis in myelogenous leukemic K562 cell line.

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Craig, R. and Stitzel, H. (2003) Modern pharmacology with clinical applications. 5th ed. Lippincott Williams and Wilkins edition. pp 631– 633 Crow, M. T., Mani, K., Nam, Y. J. and Kitsis, R. N. (2004) The mitochondrial death pathway and cardiac myocyte apoptosis. Circ Res. 95(10):957–70 De Feo, V. (1992) Medicinal plants of the Andes Peru. Fitoterapia 63:417–440 Gbeassor, M., Kedjagni, A. Y., Koumaglo, K., de Souza, C., Agbo, K., Aklikokou, K., and Amegbo, K. A. (1990) “In vitro antimalarial activity of six medicinal plants.” Phytother. Res. 4(3): 115–117 Guadano, A., Carmen G., Eduardo, P., Cortes, D. and González-Coloma, A. (2000) “Insecticidal and mutagenic evaluation of two annonaceous acetogenins.” J. Nat. Prod. 63(6): 773–6 Heatwole, V. M (1999) TUNEL Assay for apoptotic cells. Molecular biology, 115 (111):141–148. Jaramillo, M. C., Arango G. J., González, M. C., Robledo, S. M., and Velez, I. D (2000) “Cytotoxicity and antileishmanial activity of Annona muricata pericarp.” Fitoterapia. 71(2): 183–6 Jemal, A., Bray, F., Center, M.M., Ferlay, J., Ward, E. and Forman, D (2011) "Global cancer statistics". CA Cancer journal for clinicians 61 (2): 134 Johnstone, R. W., Ruefli, A. A. and Lowe, S. W. (2000) Apoptosis: A link between cancer genetics and chemotherapy. Cell 108:153–164

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Kasper, D.L., Braunwald, E., Fauci, A.S., Hauser, S.L., Longo, D.L. and Jameson, J.L. (2005) Harrison’s Principle of Internal Medicine. 16th ed. McGrawHill companies, Inc. USA. p.630. Khan, M. R. (1998) “Antibacterial activity of some annonaceae Part I.” Fitoterapia 69(4): 367–369 Khan, M. R. and Mlungwana, S. M. (1999) Csitosterol, a cytotoxic sterol from Markhamia zanzibarica and Kigelia africana. Fitoterapia 70:96–97 Kilham E. L. (1999) Evaluating A Health Service At A Primary Care Clinic In Chilamanca, Bolivia. Social Sci. Med., 49: 663–678 Kojima, N. and Tanaka, T. (2009) "Medicinal Chemistry of Annonaceous Acetogenins: Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Novel Analogues" Molecules 14: 3621–3661 Liaw,

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Lozzio, B.B.; Lozzio, C.B.; Bamberger, E.G.; Feliu, A.S. (1981), "A multipotential leukaemia cell line (K-562) of human origin", Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine 166: 546–550 Mathers, C.D, Boschi-Pinto, C., Lopez, A. D. and Murray, C.J.L. (2001). Cancer incidence, mortality and survival by site for 14 regions of the world. World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/entity/healthinfo/pa per13.pdf. Morré, D.J., de Cabo, R., Farley, C., Oberlies, N.H. and McLaughlin, J.L. (1995) "Mode of action of bullatacin, a potent antitumor acetogenin: Inhibition of NADH oxidase activity of Hela and

HL-60, but not liver, plasma membranes". Life Sci., 56: 343–348 N'Gouemo, P., Koudogbo, B., Tchivounda, P. H., Akono- Nguema, C. and Etoua, M. M. (1997) “Effects of ethanol extract of Annona muricata on pentylenetetrazol-induced convulsive seizures in mice.” Phytother. Res. 11(3): 243–245 Oberlies, N.H., Croy, V.L., Harrison, M.L. and McLaughlin, J.L. (1997) The annonaceous acetogenin bullatacin is cytotoxic against multidrug-resistant human mammary adenocarcinoma cells. Cancer Lett. 115; 73–79 Pirnia, F., Schneider, E., Betticher, D. C. and Borner, M. M. (2002) Mitomycin C induces apoptosis and caspase-8 and -9 processing through a caspase-3 and Fasindependent pathway. Cell Death Differ. 9(9):905–14 Santos, A. F. and Sant'Ana, A.E. G. (2001) “Molluscicidal properties of some species of Annona.” Phytomedicine 8 (2): 115–120 Shafi, G., Anjana, M., Hasan, T., Alshatwi, A., Jyothy, A. and Lei, D. K. (2009) Induction of apoptosis in HeLa cells by chloroform fraction of seed extracts of Nigella Sativa. Cancer cell International 9:29 Trease and Evans (1989) Pharmacognosy. 14th ed. Evans edition, W.B. Saunder company Ltd. London. Vasques, M. R. (1990) Useful plants of Amanzonian Peru. Second Draft Field with USDA„s National Agricultural Library. U.S.A Wyllie, A. H. (1997) Apoptosis: An overview. British Medical Bulletin 53:451–465

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Source of Support: Nil

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Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 152–164 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Review article PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES OF YASHTIMADHU (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA L.) IN VARIOUS ANIMAL MODELS - A REVIEW Korhalkar Anagha1*, Deshpande Manasi2, Lele Priya3, Modak Meera4 1

Department of Gen. Pathology and Microbiology, Dental College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune 411043, Maharashtra, India. 2 Department of Dravyaguna Vignan, College of Ayurved, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune 411043, Maharashtra, India 3 Department of Periodontology, Dental College and Hospital, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune 411043, Maharashtra, India. 4 Department of Microbiology, Medical College, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed University, Pune 411043, Maharashtra, India. *Corresponding Author: anaghakorhalkar13@gmail.com; Mob: + 91 9823289223; Fax: 020-24379163

Received: 01/02/2013; Revised: 28/02/2013; Accepted: 04/03/2013

ABSTRACT Plants are one of the most important sources of medicines. Yashtimadhu [Glycyrrhiza glabra] is one such plant which symbolizes all that is wondrous in nature because, the whole plant has been used as traditional medicine for household remedy against various human ailments from antiquity. The objective of this paper is to review the literature regarding various pharmacological actions. The canvas of the pharmacological activities of Yashtimadhu is very vast. When these activities were complied Yashtimadhu stands out strongly as a drug of choice in various disorders. This paper reviews the available data on use of Yashtimadhu [Glycyrrhiza glabra] in various disorders as evidenced in these topics. KEYWORDS: Glycyrrhiza glabra, glycyrrhizin, isoliquiritigenin, Licorice, flavonoids.

Cite this article: Korhalkar A, Deshpande M, Lele P, Modak M (2013), PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES OF YASHTIMADHU (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA L.) IN VARIOUS ANIMAL MODELS - A REVIEW, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 152–164

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 152–164

INTRODUCTIONThe increasing use of medicinal herbs among the general public has increased the need for scientific-based research to determine the mechanism of action of herbs. In India, the licorice root carries the ancient Sanskrit name of 'Yasthimadhu' (sweet- stalk) and it has been a mainstay of Ayurvedic and other traditional medicines. In ancient Ayurvedic System, more than 1250 preparations are described containing Yashtimadhu as one of its Constituents. In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, herbs were used as special foods, serving to eliminate the excesses as well as strengthen the deficiencies, restore and rejuvenate. (Korhalkar A. et al., 2012). Research on the herbs is a developing area in modern biomedical sciences. Scientists who are trying to develop newer drugs from natural resources are looking towards the Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine. Several drugs of plant, mineral, and animal origin are described in the Ayurveda for their healing properties. Most of these drugs are derived from plant origin. Some of these plants have been screened scientifically for the evaluation of their pharmacological activity in different models, but the potential of most remains unexplored. The available data on some of the major points on the pharmacological activity of Yashtimadhu [Glycyrrhiza glabra L.] in the various disorders is described below. 1] Regulation of gastrointestinal motility This study explained the gastrointestinal effects of isoliquiritigenin, a flavonoid isolated from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra in vivo & in vitro. The results indicated that isoliquiritigenin plays a dual role in regulating gastrointestinal motility, both spasmogenic and spasmolytic (Chen G, et al., 2009). 2] Anti-obesity action– Licorice flavonoid oil (LFO), was investigated for anti-obesity action in dietinduced obese rats. The addition of 2% LFO in a high-fat diet significantly decreased the weight of abdominal adipose tissue and the

levels of hepatic and plasma triglycerides. The enzymatic activities of acetyl-CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthase, the rate-limiting enzymes in the fatty acid synthetic pathway, were significantly decreased by LFO, whereas the enzymatic activity of acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the fatty acid oxidative pathway, was significantly increased (Kamisoyama et al., 2008). The effects of hydrophobic flavonoids from Glycyrrhiza glabra on abdominal fat accumulation and blood glucose level in obese diabetic KK-A(y) mice, were investigated. The results indicated that licorice hydrophobic flavonoids have abdominal fat-lowering and hypoglycemic effects, possibly mediated via activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPAR-gamma) (Nakagawa K, et al., 2004). 3] Antioxidant actionThe following is a summary of the scientific evidence in support of the capacity of Glycyrrhiza glabra as antioxidant activity. Spices such as cloves (Syzygium aromaticum), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), mace (aril of Myristica fragans), and greater cardamom (Amomum subulatum) were tested for their antioxidant properties in vitro. The metal chelating activity, bleomycin dependent DNA oxidation, diphenyl-p-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity and the ferric reducing /antioxidant power (FRAP) were measured in rat liver homogenate in presence of spices. The results showed that the spices tested were strong antioxidants and may have beneficial effects on human health (Yadav AS., et al., 2007). As cancer chemopreventive agents, a new chalcone derivative a novel group of neolignan lipid esters, and seven known phenolic compounds (formononetin, glabridin, hemileiocarpin, hispaglabridin B, isoliquiritigenin, 4'-O-methylglabridin, and paratocarpin B) were isolated from the roots and stolons of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra). All isolates were tested in an authentic

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peroxynitrite anti-oxidant assay. Of these compounds, hispaglabridin B, isoliquiritigenin, and paratocarpin B were found to be the most potent anti-oxidant agents. Furthermore, isoliquiritigenin was demonstrated to prevent the incidence of 1, 2-dimethylhydrazineinduced colon and lung tumors in mice when administered at a dose of 300 mg/kg (Chin YW, et al., 2007). DHC-1, a herbal formulation derived from Bacopa monniera, Emblica officinalis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Mangifera indica and Syzygium aromaticum was studied for its antioxidant activity. The protective effect of DHC-1 in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction and cisplatin-induced renal damage were studied. The results suggested that DHC-1 possesses a protective effect against both damaged heart and kidneys in rats. This beneficial effect may be attributed, at least in part, to its antioxidant activity (Bafna PA, et al., 2005a). Pepticare, a herbomineral formulation of the Ayurveda medicine consisting of the herbal drugs: Glycyrrhiza glabra, Emblica officinalis and Tinospora cordifolia, was tested for its anti-ulcer and anti-oxidant activity in rats. Effects of various doses of Pepticare were studied on gastric secretion and gastric ulcers in pylorus-ligation and on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats. It was concluded that Pepticare possesses anti-ulcer activity, which can be attributed to its anti-oxidant mechanism of action (Bafna PA, et al., 2005b). Rabbits were treated (orally) with a preparation of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. for 30 days and in parallel were exposed to vibration stress (30 days). The licorice preparation reduced catalase activity in the peripheral blood and increased animal resistance to vibration stress (Oganesyan KR., 2002). The hypocholesterolemic and antioxidant effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra root powder were examined in hypercholesterolemic male albino rats. Administration of Glycyrrhiza glabra root powder (5 and 10 gm% in diet) to hypercholesterolemic rats resulted in significant reduction in plasma, hepatic total

lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides and plasma low-density lipoprotein and VLDL-cholesterol accompanied by significant increases in HDLcholesterol levels. The root powder administration to hypercholesterolemic rats also decreased hepatic lipid peroxidation with a concomitant increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activities and total ascorbic acid content. The normo-cholesterolemic animals when fed with Glycyrrhiza glabra root powder at 10 gm% level, registered a significant decline in plasma lipid profiles and an increase in HDL-cholesterol content. The antioxidant status of these animals also was improved upon treatment (Visavadiya NP, et al., 2006). 4] Protective activity – It was concluded that Glycyrrhiza glabra is a potential antioxidant and attenuates the hepatotoxic effect of CCl4 by acting as an in vivo antioxidant and thereby inhibiting the initiation and promotion of lipid peroxidation or by an accelerated scavenging of free radicals and their products by conjugation with GSH aided by GST (MG Rajesh, et al., 2004). Another study evaluated the potential beneficial effect of glycyrrhizin in a mouse model of carbon tetrachloride (CCl (4)-induced liver injury. Glycyrrhizin diminished these alterations. These results suggested that glycyrrhizin alleviated CCl (4)-induced liver injury, and this protection was likely due to the induction of heme oxygenase-1 and the downregulation of proinflammatory mediators (Lee CH, et al., 2007). In the study by Zhan, the protective effects of Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) were investigated in transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced focal cerebral ischemiareperfusion injury in rats. Pretreatment with ISL significantly reduced the cerebral infarct volume and edema and produced significant reduction in neurological deficits. These findings indicated that ISL had the protective potential against cerebral ischemia injury and its protective effects were may be due to the

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amelioration of cerebral energy metabolism and its antioxidant property (Zhan C, et al., 2006).

may be mediated by its antioxidant effects (P. Muralidharan, et al., 2009).

The research done by Liu, compared rectal and oral treatments with glycyrrhizic acid for trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis in rats. There were significant pathological changes in colon in TNBS-treated groups, and rectal glycyrrhizic acid significantly attenuated colitis. These results suggested that rectally administered glycyrrhizic acid had significant protective effects against TNBS-induced colitis in rats, and the rectal route could be a complementary treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (Liu Y, et al., 2011).

Another study indicated that the DNA was protected from the deleterious effects of gamma radiation by glycyrrhizic acid in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo conditions of radiation exposure. The results showed that the glycyrrhizic acid protected bone marrow cells from the radiation-induced damages. It was suggested that glycyrrhizic acid could be a potential drug for the protection of the hemopoietic system from radiation-induced lesions. These results indicated that glycyrrhizic acid offered radioprotection by the scavenging of free radicals (Nitin Gandhi, et al., 2004).

The effect of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract as a natural antioxidant and melatonin (MEL) on ochratoxin A (OTA)-induced histopathological damages on the testes and oxidative stress was evaluated in male rats. The serum total antioxidant power (TAOP) and total thiol molecules (TTM) production were assessed. Both the biochemical and histopathological examinations showed that MEL and Glycyrrhiza glabra extract exerted a protective effect on OTA-induced damages. This data suggested that OTA contamination in animal feeds and human foods could cause reproductive abnormalities (Malekinejad H, et al., 2011). The study was carried out to evaluate the cerebroprotective effect of the aqueous extract of the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn in hypoxic rats. Extract at the tested doses promoted the locomotor activity and spatial behavior significantly, which was impaired in hypoxic rats. The extract administration restored the decreased levels of brain enzymes such as glutamate and dopamine and decreased acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity significantly. Levels of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and catalase were restored to near normalcy by administration of ethanol extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra. The study suggested that ethanol extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra possessed a cerebroprotective effect in hypoxic rats, which

Yu XQ, et al study was designed to evaluate whether glabridin modulated the cerebral injuries induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in rats and staurosporine-induced damage in cultured rat cortical neurons and the possible mechanisms involved. Findings indicated that glabridin had a neuroprotective effect via modulation of multiple pathways associated with apoptosis (Yu XQ, et al., 2008). 5] Anti-inflammatory activityGlycyrrhizin was evaluated on an animal model of spinal cord injury (SCI) induced by the application of vascular clips. The results demonstrated that treatment with glycyrrhizin extract reduced the development of inflammation and tissue injury events associated with spinal cord trauma (Genovese T, et al., 2009). This study compared the antiarthritic activities and underlying mechanism of LE and rLE (Licorice and Roasted Licorice Extracts) in the CIA mouse model of human RA. The data suggested that supplementation with LE and rLE might be beneficial in preventing and treating both acute and chronic inflammatory conditions (Ki RimKim, et al., 2010). The anti-inflammatory activities of glycyrrhizin given at 10 mg/kg i.p. 5 min prior to carrageenan in mice model were evaluated in

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this study. Glycyrrhizin exerted potent antiinflammatory effects in this model. The results indicated that prevention of the activation of NF-kappaB and STAT-3 by glycyrrhizin reduced the development of acute inflammation (Menegazzi M, et al., 2008).

induced diabetic rats. The results showed that glabridin prevented the deleterious effects of diabetes on learning and memory in rats due to its combination of antioxidant, neuroprotective and anticholinesterase properties (Hasanein P., 2011).

6] Immunostimulating –

8] Relaxes smooth muscle-

The uses of ISCOMs (Immunostimulating complexes) formulated with saponins from plants (Aesculus hippocastanum and Glycyrrhiza glabra) collected in Kazakhstan, with antigens from the poultry coccidian parasite Eimeria tenella, were evaluated for their potential use in developing a vaccine for control of avian coccidiosis. The results of this study indicated that these ISCOMs were an effective antigen delivery system which may be successfully used, with low toxicity, for preparation of highly immunogenic coccidia vaccine (Berezin VE, et al., 2008).

The tracheal relaxation effects of isoliquiritigenin, was investigated, on guineapig tracheal smooth muscle in vitro and in vivo. Result indicated that isoliquiritigenin relaxes guinea-pig trachea through a multiple of intracellular actions, including sGC activation, inhibition of PDEs, and associated activation of the cGMP/PKG signaling cascade, leading to the opening of BKCa channels and [Ca2+]i decrease through PKG-dependent mechanism and thus to tracheal relaxation (Liu B, et al., 2008).

7] Learning and memoryGlabridin was isolated from the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra and its effects on cognitive functions and cholinesterase activity were investigated in mice. Glabridin and piracetam were administered daily for 3 successive days to different groups of mice. Both remarkably reduced the brain cholinesterase activity in mice compared to the control group. Therefore, glabridin appeared to be a promising candidate for memory improvement (Cui YM, et al., 2008). The study was undertaken to investigate the effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra, on learning and memory. The elevated plus-maze and passive avoidance paradigm were employed to evaluate learning and memory parameters. Three doses of aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra were administered for 7 successive days in separate groups of mice. Glycyrrhiza glabra showed promise as a memory enhancer in both exteroceptive and interoceptive behavioral models of memory (Parle M, et al., 2004). Another study investigated the effect of chronic treatment with glabridin on cognitive function in control and streptozotocin (STZ)-

Licochalcone A, a flavonoid found in licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), is known for its anti-microbial activity and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation. This study investigated whether Licochalcone A inhibits rat vascular smooth muscle cell (rVSMC) proliferation. The data provided that Licochalcone A could regulate rVSMC proliferation and suggested that Licochalcone A inhibited the proliferation of rVSMCs by suppressing the PDGF-induced activation of the ERK1/2 pathway and Rb phosphorylation, resulting in cell cycle arrest (Park JH, et al., 2008). 9] Accelerating metabolism processes of the marrow stem cellsThe effect of long-term exposure of vibration and feeding rabbits with liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L) on peripheral blood indicators was studied. It was found that biological active substances of licorice accelerate metabolism processes of the marrow stem cells, enlarge organism compensatory abilities, in that way providing organism resistance to vibration (Minasian SM, et al., 2007).

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10] Antiviral effectsAnimal studies demonstrated a reduction of mortality and viral activity in herpes simplex virus encephalitis and influenza A virus pneumonia. In vitro studies revealed antiviral activity against HIV-1, SARS related coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, arboviruses, vaccinia virus and vesicular stomatitis virus (Fiore C, et al., 2008). 11] Antifibrotic effects Study investigated whether a combination regimen of Salvia miltiorrhiza (S), Ligusticum chuanxiong (L) and Glycyrrhiza glabra (G) exerted in vivo antifibrotic effects on rats with hepatic fibrosis. Fibrosis was induced in rats by dimethylnitrosamine (DMN) administration for 4 weeks. The results showed that SLG exerted antifibrotic effects in rats with DMN-induced hepatic fibrosis (Lin YL, et al., 2008). 12] Antiallergic effectsIn this study, the main components (glycyrrhizin, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, isoliquiritin, and liquiritigenin) were isolated from licorice, and their anti-allergic effects, such as antiscratching behavior and IgE production-inhibitory activity, were evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. These components inhibited the production of IgE in ovalbumininduced asthma mice but liquiritigenin had little effect. The study suggested that the antiallergic effects of licorice were mainly due to glycyrrhizin, 18β-glycyrrhetinic acid, and liquiritigenin, which could relieve IgE-induced allergic diseases such as dermatitis and asthma (Shin YW, 2007). The study evaluated glycyrrhizin a major constituent of Glycyrrhiza glabra, for its efficacy on asthmatic features in a mouse model of asthma. The results demonstrated that glycyrrhizin alleviated asthmatic features in mice and it could be useful towards developing a better therapeutic molecule in the future (Ram A, et al., 2006).

Glycyrrhiza glabra, Allium cepa and Clerrodendrum serratum with hydroalcoholic (50:50) solvent were evaluated for acute toxicity and Anti asthmatic activity. Saponins and flavanoids were the major reason for antioxidant activity as confirmed by DPPH free radical scavenging activity test and were responsible for treating oxidative stress during asthma (Tulsiani Puja, 2012). 13] Cholinesterase-inhibiting activityThis study estimated the acetyl cholinesterase- inhibiting activity of extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra, and compared these values with a standard acetyl cholinesterase-inhibiting drug, metrifonate. Aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra and metrifonate were administered to young male Swiss albino mice. Acetyl cholinesterase enzyme was estimated in brains of mice. Glycyrrhiza glabra and metrifonate significantly decreased acetyl cholinesterase activity as compared with their respective vehicle-treated control groups (Dhingra et al., 2006a). 14] Immunomodulatory propertiesStandardized ethanol extracts of Allium sativum, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Plantago major and Hippophae rhamnoides were assessed for their effects on cellular immunity in laying hens. Birds had blood samples taken and both specific and non-specific immune cell responsiveness were evaluated by a leukocyte proliferation assay, carbon clearance test and SRBC phagocytosis in monocyte-derived macrophage cultures. Licorice and sea buckthorn clearly enhanced the macrophage membrane function. Small concentrations (20 µg/mL) of licorice proved the co-mitogenic potential for both T and B avian lymphocytes (Dorhoi A, et al., 2006). 15] Antidepressant-like activity This study investigated the effects of aqueous extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra, on depression in mice using forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST). The dose of 150 mg/kg of the extract significantly reduced the immobility times of mice in both

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FST and TST, without any significant effect on locomotor activity of mice. This suggested that antidepressant-like effect of liquorice extract seems to be mediated by increase of brain norepinephrine and dopamine, but not by increase of serotonin (Dhingra D. et al., 2006b).

the mixture was revealed when mutagenesis was the result of X-rays and the natural aging processes (Alekperov UK., 2002).

Other study evaluated the potential of methanolic extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra as an adjuvant in treatment of Parkinson's disease and depression. In acute study Glycyrrhiza glabra extract (30 and 100 mg/kg i.p.) significantly inhibited haloperidol-induced catalepsy in mice in dose dependent manner. Similar inhibitory effect of Glycyrrhiza glabra extract was also observed in chronic study (15 days) which indicated that there was no development of tolerance. The Glycyrrhiza glabra extract reduced duration of catalepsy also. These observations indicated that Glycyrrhiza glabra has a good potential as an adjuvant of anti-Parkinsonian and antidepressant drugs (SB Kasture et al., 2008).

The radioprotective effect of the root extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra L on lipid peroxidation in rat liver microsomes and plasmid pBR322 DNA was investigated. The extract was found to protect microsomal membranes, as evident from reduction in lipid peroxidation, and could also protect plasmid DNA from radiation-induced strand breaks (Shetty TK, et al.,2002).

16] Increased resistance to stressThis study observed the effect of continuous vibration and treatment with licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) on peripheral blood red cells in rabbits. Active substances of licorice root accelerated metabolism in cells of the bone marrow erythroid stem, enhanced compensatory reserve of the organism, and increased animal's resistance to stress (Adamyan TI., et al., 2005). 17] Antimutagenic propertiesThe antimutagenic effect of the bioactive compounds from fruits of Morus alba L. (MA), Punica granatum L. (PG), Diospyros kaki L. (DK), Cydonia oblonga Mill. (CO) and roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GG) were investigated. The antimutagenic effects were studied on mutations induced by genotoxicants (X-rays, N-methylnitrosourea, cyclophosphamide, NaF) and aging in bone marrow cell chromosomes from mice and rats. The antimutagenic properties of the complex mixtures were considerably greater than those of the separate components. More antimutagenic activity of

18] Protection of DNA and microsomal membranes-

19] Antiulcerogenic effect Extracts from the plants Iberis amara, Melissa officinalis, Matricaria recutita, Carum carvi, Mentha x piperita, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Angelica archangelica, Silybum marianum and Chelidonium majus, singly and combined in the form of a commercial preparation, STW 5 (Iberogast) and a modified formulation, STW 5-II, were tested for their potential antiulcerogenic activity against indometacin induced gastric ulcers of the rat as well as for their antisecretory and cytoprotective activities. All extracts produced a dose dependent antiulcerogenic activity associated with a reduced acid output and an increased mucin secretion, an increase in prostaglandin E2 release and a decrease in leukotrienes (Khayyal MT, et al., 2001). 20] Hepatoprotective hepatocarcinogenic –

and

anti-

Liver protective and antihepatocarcinogenic effects of combination use of Gly and Mat (Matrine), a component extracted from Sophora flavescens Ait, Glycyrrhizin (Gly), a major active constituent of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) root, were tested, as compared to effects of Gly or Mat alone. The results showed that compared with Gly or Mat alone, Gly + Mat reduced the mortality of acetaminophen overdosed mice more effectively, attenuate acetaminopheninduced hepatotoxicity, and reduced the

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number and area of γ-GT positive foci, thus protecting liver function and preventing HCC from occurring (Xu-ying et al., 2009). 21] Improve efficiency of chemotherapy and surgical treatment-

their electrophysiological parameters. These results indicated that TA-induced ocular metabolism changes could be compensated by Glycyrrhizin (Song Z, 2011). 24] Anticonvulsant Activity -

Experiments on animals with Lewis lung carcinoma and Ehrlich tumor showed that licorice (Glycyrrhiza) extract and glyciram prepared from this plant improved the antitumor effect of cyclophosphamide. Glyciram reduced the toxic effect of the cytostatic on peripheral blood leukocytes. Licorice extract inhibited the growth of Ehrlich tumor and development of metastases in mice with Lewis lung carcinoma. Glyciram administered to mice after removal of Lewis lung carcinoma produced an antimetastatic effect and prevented relapses (Goldberg ED, et al., 2008).

The anticonvulsant activity of ethanolic extract of roots and rhizomes of Glycyrrhiza glabra in mice was assessed using maximum electroshock seizure (MES) test and pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) using albino mice. The lithium-pilocarpine model of status epilepticus was also used to assess the anticonvulsant activity in rats. The ethanolic extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra did not reduce the duration of tonic hindleg extension in the MES test even in the dose of 500 mg/kg. However, the extract significantly and dose-dependently delayed the onset of clonic convulsions induced by pentylenetetrazol (Shirish D et al., 2002).

22] Antithrombotic effect-

25] Restores the impaired production of βdefensins-

Here the in vivo effects of Glycyrrhizin upon two experimental models of induced thrombosis in rats are reported. Intravenous administration of Glycyrrhizin caused a dosedependent reduction in thrombus size on a venous thrombosis model that combines stasis and hypercoagulability. It was observed that Glycyrrhizin doses of 180 mg/kg body weight produced 93% decrease on thrombus weight. Glycyrrhizin was also able to prevent thrombosis using an arteriovenous shunt model. In contrast with heparin, Glycyrrhizin did not potentiate the inhibitory activity of antithrombin III or heparin cofactor II towards thrombin. Altogether, data indicate that Glycyrrhizin is an effective thrombin inhibitor in vivo, which may account for its other known pharmacological properties (Mendes-Silva W.et al., 2003). 23] Reduce ocular hypertension – This study evaluated the hypotensive effects of glycyrrhizin on a rabbit model of ocular hypertension (OH) induced by triamcinolone acetonide (TA).The administration of Glycyrrhizin could suppress OH induced by TA in rabbits, and improve

In this paper, the decreased production of antimicrobial peptides by EK influenced by Gr1(+) CD11b (+) cells was shown to be restored by glycyrrhizin. Also, sepsis stemming from P. aeruginosa burn-site infection was not demonstrated in burn mice treated with glycyrrhizin. These results suggested that through the improved production of antimicrobial peptides in tissues surrounding the burn area, sepsis stemming from P. aeruginosa wound infection is controllable by glycyrrhizin in severely burned mice (Tsuyoshi Yoshida, 2010). 26] Modulate rat cardiac performanceThe direct cardiac activity of glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid was explored. The effects of synthetic glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid were evaluated on the isolated and Langendorff perfused rat heart. The intracellular signaling involved in the effects of the two substances was analyzed on isolated and perfused heart and by Western blotting on cardiac extracts. Under basal conditions, both glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic

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acid influenced cardiac contractility and relaxation. Glycyrrhizin induced significant positive inotropic and lusitropic effects starting from very low concentrations, while both inotropism and lusitropism were negatively affected by glycyrrhetinic acid. Both substances significantly increased heart rate (Maria L. Parisellaa, 2012). 27] Antitumor and antimetastatic effects – Experiments on mice inoculated with metastasing Lewis lung carcinoma showed that the antitumor and antimetastatic effects of cyclophosphan (cyclophosphamide) are potentiated by the extracts of phytopreparations based on Baikal scullcap (Scutellaria baikalensis), rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea), common licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and their principal acting components-baikalin, paratyrosol, and glycyrram (Razina TG, 2000). 28] Antitussive activity – This study analyzed the water-extracted polymeric fraction (WE) of Glycyrrhiza glabra. This arabinogalactan protein enriched fraction, ≥ 85% of which gets precipitated with Yariv reagent, consisted mainly of 3- and 3,6-linked galactopyranosyl, and 5- and 3, 5-linked arabinofuranosyl residues. Peroral administration of this polymer, in a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight decreases the number of citric acid induced cough efforts in guinea pigs more effectively than codeine. It does not induce significant change in the values of specific airway resistance or provoked any observable adverse effects (Saha S et al., 2011). 29] Prevention of hepatorenal damage – Protective role of Glycyrrhiza glabra rhizomes (roots) at three dose levels (100, 75, & 50 mg/kg/bw) against sublethal dose (300 mg/kg/bw) of acetaminophen (paracetamol) induced hepatorenal damage has been assessed in mice. Parameters of study were glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (GPT), billirubin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) as liver function tests, creatinine and urea as kidney function tests and histology for

pathology. Glycyrrhiza glabra could antagonize acetaminophen induced both, hepato and nephrotoxicity in dose dependent manner. No protection provided by a single dose of Glycyrrhiza glabra (1.5 gm/kg/bw) against lethal dose of acetaminophen (1 gm/kg/bw) (Sharma A.et al., 2011). 30] Antiandrogenic activitiesThis study was carried out to investigate different aspects of antiandrogenic properties of Glycyrrhiza glabra. Immature male rats, castrated rats without any treatment received only vehicle; castrated rats plus T replacement; three castrated groups with T replacement plus various doses of G. glabra extract (75, 150 and 300 mg/kg). Those receiving the doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg showed a significant reduction in prostate weight, total T and VP epithelium/stroma ratio (V/V). These results in SV and levator ani were shown in response to 300 mg/kg of extract. Increasing in T metabolism, down-regulation of androgen receptors or activation of oestrogen receptors could be involved mechanisms. This study showed that alcoholic extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra has antiandrogenic properties (Zamansoltani F, et al., 2009). CONCLUSION Yashtimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra) still remains a mainstay of Ayurvedic and other traditional medicines. But only some of its uses are supported by clinical data. So it becomes relevant to search the evidence based data and to classify and to analyze it. In last two decades more and more bioactive compounds have been recognized and promising results have been established through various pharmacological studies on animal models as well as clinical studies. Mechanisms of action of its major constituents such as glycyrrhizin (glycyrrhizic acid, glycyrrhizinic acid), isoliquiritigenin, Licorice flavonoid oil (LFO), hydrophobic flavonoids, formononetin, glabridin, hemileiocarpin, hispaglabridin B, 4'-Omethylglabridin, paratocarpin B. Licochalcone A., 18 β-glycyrrhetinic acid, isoliquiritin, liquiritigenin, glyciram etc have been discussed in this review which could help the researchers.

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Source of Support: Nil

C, Yang Protective effects of isoliquiritigenin in transient middle cerebral artery Occlusion-induced focal cerebral ischemia in rats. (2006), J. Pharmacol Res. 53(3):303–9.

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 165–171 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Research article PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION OF LEAF OF BLEPHARISPERMUM SUBSESSILE DC. (ASTERACEAE) Jadhav Amruta1, Acharya Rabinarayan2, Chandola H M3, Harisha CR4 1

PG scholar, Department of Dravya Guna, Institute for Postgraduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat – 361 008, India. 2 Associate Professor, Dept. of Dravyaguna, Institute for Postgraduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat – 361 008. India. 3 Professor, Department of Kaya Chikitsa, Institute for Postgraduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat – 361 008. India. 4 Head, Pharmacognocy laboratory, Institute for Postgraduate Teaching and Research in Ayurveda, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar, Gujarat – 361 008. India. *Corresponding Author: Email- drrnacharya@gmail.com

Received: 29/01/2013; Revised: 20/02/2013; Accepted: 27/02/2013

ABSTRACT Blepharispermum subsessile DC (Asteraceae), a less explored folklore medicinal plant, is a glabrous shrub, found in the forest of Odisha, Karnataka, Madhya pradesh and Maharashtra. It is used as one of the source plants of Rasna. Its root, stem and leaves are claimed to be beneficial in the treatment of Rheumatism. In this study, a detailed pharmacognostical investigation on its leaves, which includes macroscopic and microscopic characters, histochemical tests, quantitative microscopy and preliminary physicochemical analysis, following the prescribed guidelines of Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. The microscopical study result showed the presence of undifferentiated palisade and spongy tissue, anomocytic stomata, bicollateral vascular bundles, unicellular trichomes, calcium oxalate crystals, oil globules, tannins etc. in the leaves. The quantitative surface microscopy study showed 174 numbers of epidermal cells, each epidermal cell measured about 22.48µm², through veins 29.36µm² and stomatal index 25. The purity test showed loss on drying (9.14%w/w), total ash (9.68%w/w), water soluble extractive (30.91%w/w), alcohol soluble extractive (5.73%w/w) and pH (6.5). KEY WORDS: Asteraceae, Ayurveda, Blepharispermum subsessile DC., Ethnomedicine, Pharmacognosy, Rasna.

Cite this article: Jadhav Amruta, Acharya Rabinarayan, Chandola H M, Harisha CR (2013), PHARMACOGNOSTICAL EVALUATION OF LEAF OF BLEPHARISPERMUM SUBSESSILE DC. (ASTERACEAE), Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 165–171

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 165–171

INTRODUCTION Blepharispermum subsessile DC. (Asteraceae), known as Rasnajhadi in Odisha, Naama banta in Kannada and Adavi banti in Telugu, is a glabrous shrub with small close globose cluster head, leaves alternate, entire or toothed with short petiole. It is distributed in Odisha, Karnataka, Madhya pradesh and Maharashtra. Ethno-botanical studies reports its use in common cold and rhinitis, as wormicidal, as tonic (A.K.Gupta et al., 2004), diarrhoea (Dash et al., 2006), eye troubles, backache and rheumatism (A.B.Prusti et al., 2007), irregular menstruation (Rajesh et al., 2008) and rheumatism (C.P.Khare, 2008). The pharmacognostical characters of its leaf, one of the parts used, is not reported yet. So, the present study deals with the macroscopic and microscopic characters of its leaf including preliminary physicochemical analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Collection and authentification: Rasnajhadi, identified by local traditional practitioners, growing in Gurudongar medicinal plants conservation area of Nuapada district of Odisha, India, was authenticated by expert taxonomist as Blepharispermum subsessile DC., (Asteraceae), on the basis of characters given in Flora of Orissa (Saxena et al., 1990). The fresh plant samples were collected from its natural habitat, Odisha, in the month of October 2011 and voucher specimen has been preserved in the pharmacognosy laboratory of IPGT and RA, vide no 36561. The collected plant samples were shaken to remove adherent soil and dirt. The leaves were separated from the stem, washed with running fresh water and few pieces stored in solution of AAF (Alcohol: Acetic acid: Formalin) in the ratio of (90:5:5) (Johnsen, 1940) to utilize them for microscopic studies. The remaining leaves were shade dried and then powdered with mechanical grinder and passed through mesh no.80# and preserved in an air-tight glass container.

Pharmacognostic studies: Morphological characters were studied by observing the leaves as such and also with the help of the dissecting microscope. For detailed microscopical observation, free hand thin transverse section passing through the midrib were taken, and cleared with chloral hydrate and observed as such for the presence of any crystals, then were stained with Phloroglucinol and Hydrochloric acid to notice the lignified elements like fibers, vessels etc. of the meristele and other parts (Khandelwal K.R., 2008). Photographs of the section were taken with the help of Canon digital camera attached to Zeiss microscope. Powder characters were observed and histochemical tests carried out, as per the guidelines of Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, (Anonymous, 1999). Quantitative microscopy: Determination of certain leaf constants or diagnostic characters of leaves like micrometric evaluation of stomatal number, stomatal index, stomatal size and epidermal size were taken by mean value (3-5 successive results) carried out as per the method described in Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (Evans, 2009). [fig 2.gi] [table-2, 3]. I = S * 100 E+S (I= stomatal index, S= no. of stomata per unit area, E = no. of epidermal cells in the same unit area). Phytochemical evaluation: Preliminary physic-chemical investigations were carried out following standard procedures recommended by API (Anonymous, 1999). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Morphology: Leaves simple, alternate, stipulate, sessile, measures about 10–12 × 4–6 cm, ovate to elliptic, margin, entire with acute tip and symmetrical base, upper surface dark green, glabrous while lower surface light green in colour, Mid rib strong, 5-7 pairs of veins, venation reticulate. (fig 1-a,c)

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 165–171

Photo plate: 1 Microscopic characters of Blepharispermum subsessile DC. leaf Fig-1.a leaf arrangement

Fig-1.b T.S. of leaf through mid-rib

Fig-1.c individual sub sessile leaf

Fig-1.d Upper epidermis through veins

Fig-1.e Upper epidermis with thick cuticle

Fig-1.f Bicollateral vascular bundle

Fig-1.g Chlorophyll pigments

Fig-1.h undifferentiated spongy & palisade tissue

Fig-1.i. oil globules

Fig-1.j lower epidermis with stomata

Fig-1.k lower epidermis with unicellular trichomes

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 165–171

Photoplate : 2 Powder microscopy &Quantitative microscopy Fig-2.a Fibre

Fig-2.c Stomatas

Fig-2.d Fragments of spiral vessels

Fig-2.eTannin containing cell

Fig-2.g Measurement of epidermal cells

Fig-2.h Measurement of stomata

Microscopic description: T.S. of the leaf passing through the mid rib 1. Midrib convex dorsiventrally with lateral extensions of the lamina on its either side. 2. Epidermis single layered, covered with thick cuticle. Upper epidermal cells wavy walled, large in size than the lower epidermis. Lower epidermis, interrupted with number of stomatas along with simple unicellular trichomes aroused from it. 3. The mesophyll consisted of undifferentiated palisade and spongy tissues. Through mid

Fig-2.b Prismatic crystal

Fig-2.f Oil globules

Fig-2.i lower epidermis with stomata

rib both the upper and lower epidermis consisted of thick compactly arranged collenchymatous cells. Vascular bundles located at the centre of the ground tissue. Ground tissue was made up of simple parenchyma cells with many calcium oxalate crystals at the lower side. The meristele, as seen in midrib, in the form of an arc having the xylem towards the upper surface arranged in radiating bands spreading towards the lower surface. Protoxylem being pointed towards the upper side and the phloem bands towards

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 165–171

the lower side. Medullary rays and cambium tissue occasionally was visible in well developed big vascular bundles. Phloem patches could be seen on both sides of the xylem and hence vascular bundle is bicollateral. The vascular bundle was surrounded by parenchymatous bundle sheath. 4. Stomata- Epidermal cells of the leaf in surface view were wavy in outline and stomata were found mostly on the lower surface of the lamina. The stomata were mostly anomocytic in which guard cells were surrounded by 4 subsidiary cells. (fig 1.b, d–k).

Histochemical test: The results of various histochemical tests carried out to detect lignin, crystals of Calcium oxalate and tannin are depicted in table no.1 Quantitative microscopy No. of epidermal cells 174 and 5 veins were passing through in 1 mm (32, 38, 33, 33, 38). In surface study, each epidermal cell measured about 22.48 µm², whereas through veins 29.36 µm². In transverse section lower epidermal cells measured about 134.16 µm², whereas, ground tissue 299.33 µm² measurement of stomata and stomatal index is shown in table 2-3. (fig.2 g–i).

Table no.1: Histochemical test Reagent

Observation

Phloroglucinol Concentrated HCL(1:1) Phloroglucinol Concentrated HCL(1:1) Fecl3 solution

Length (micrometre)

+ Pink colour

Characteristics Lignin present

+ Effervescence Crystals present Black colour

Tannin present

Table no.2: Measurement of stomata Breadth Circumference (micrometre) (Square micrometer )

17.03

14.11

207.1

17.27

12.63

183.79

17.37

12.5

186.4

Stomata through veinlets

Table no.3: Stomatal index Stomatal index (S*100/E+S) Epidermal cells

74

222

25

69

207

25

82

246

25

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Table no-4: Preliminary Physicochemical analysis of B. subsessile leaves Parameters

Leaf

Foreign matter

Nil

Loss on drying (% w/w)

9.14%

Total ash content (% w/w)

9.68%

Water soluble extractive value (% w/w)

30.91%

Alcohol soluble extractive value (% w/w)

5.73%

pH

6.5

Powder microscopy:

CONCLUSION

Organoleptic characters:

Leaf of Blepharispermum subsessile DC. (Asteraceae) can be identified on the basis of key microscopical characters like undifferentiated palisade and spongy tissue, anomocytic stomata, bicollateral vascular bundles, unicellular trichomes, calcium oxalate crystals, oil globules, tannins etc. The quantitative surface microscopy study showed 174 numbers of epidermal cells, each epidermal cell measured about 22.48µm², through veins 29.36µm² and stomatal index 25. The purity test showed loss on drying (9.14%w/w), total ash (9.68%w/w), water soluble extractive (30.91%w/w), alcohol soluble extractive (5.73%w/w) and pH (6.5).

Organoleptic evaluation of leaves of B. subsessile revealed its yellowish green colour, aromatic odour and slightly bitter taste. Diagnostic characters of the leaf powder were presence of prismatic crystals of Calcium oxalate, lignified fibers, anomocytic stomata from lower epidermis, spiral and annular vessels from stellar portion, dark yellowish brown content (Tannin), oil globules and many unicellular trichomes. (fig.2 a–f). Preliminary Physicochemical analysis: While observing the physicochemical characters for purity test, the loss on drying was not more than 9.14% w/w, ash value was not more than 9.68% w/w, water soluble extractive was not more than 30.91% w/w and the alcohol soluble extractive was not more than 5.73% w/w and pH is 6.5. (Table no.4) Total ash content signifies the level of inorganic matter and silica content. The high solubility of the sample in Water denotes that the drug is best suited for extraction with water or water based preparations.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The authors are thankful to Director IPGT&RA, Gujarat Ayurved University, Jamnagar for providing facilities to carry out the research work. We express our thankfulness to Mr B N Hota, Rtd. DFO, Govt. of Odisha; Mr Pareswar Sahu, Pharmacognosy expert; Dhala Bhai Plant collector, Mr Malaya Das, Forest Range Officer, Govt. of Odisha and other tribal practitioners who helped us during drug collection at Gurudongar, Nuapada, Odisha.

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REFERENCES A.B.Prusti and K.K.Behera (2007), Ethnomedicobotanical Study of Sundargarh District, Orissa, India. Ethnobotanical Leaflets 11:148–163.

Khandelwal K R (2008), Practical Pharmacognosy: Techniques and Experiments. Ed-19, Nirali Prakashan, pp15–18.

A.K.Gupta, Madhu Sharma, Neeraj Tondon (2004). Reviews On Indian Medicinal Plants, vol.4(Ba-By), Indian Council Of Medical Research, New Delhi, pp 250– 51.

Rajesh Shukla, Moyna Chakravarty, M.P. Gautam (2008). Indigenous medicines used for treatment of Gynecological disorders of tribals of Chattisgarah, India. vol.2 (12), Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, pp.356–360.

Anonymous, (1999), The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India. Vol. I, Appendix 2. 1st ed, Govt. of India. Ministry of Health and Family welfare, Department of I.S.M. & H., New Delhi. C.P.Khare (2008), Indian medicinal plants, An illustrated medical dictionary, springer references, New Delhi,India. pp103. H.O.Saxena, M.Brahmam (1990), The flora of Orissa. vol. 2, 1st ed, R.R.L., Bhubaneshwar, Orissa, Forest Development Carporation Ltd., pp 897. Johnsen Alexander Donald (1940), Plant micro technique. Maegrous-Hill Book Company, Newyork, London, pp105.

Source of Support: Nil

Santosh Kumar Dash, Sachidananda Padhy (2006), Review on Ethnomedicines for Diarrhoea Diseases from Orissa: Prevalence Versus Culture. J. Hum. Ecol.: 20(1), pp59–64 Subbiah Arunachalam (1996), Science On The Periphery Enriches Mainstream Science, But At What Cost? The Case of Ethnobotany. Les Sciences Hors D’occidentau Xxe Siecle, Central Electrochemical Research Institute, Karai kudi (India); 6:pp 42 Wiliam Charles Evans (2009), Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy. Sixteenth Edition. Saunders Elsevier, London; pp 569–70.

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 172–177 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Research article A CLINICAL STUDY ON SHRINGYADI CHURNA WITH AND WITHOUT PRANAYAMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TAMAKA SHWASA (BRONCHIAL ASTHMA) Benjwal Shobha1* 1

Asst. Prof. Rachana Sharir Dept., M.S.M. Institute of Ayurveda, Khanpur Kalan, Sonipat Haryana *Corresponding Author: E-mail: shobha.benijwal@yahoo.in

Received: 27/01/2013; Revised: 18/02/2013; Accepted: 28/02/2013

ABSTRACT Tamaka Shwasa is very prevalent medical problem in our country. A better and effective therapy is the need of the hour which may be without many side effects and having quick bronchodilator effects and at the same time within the reach of the masses. The present clinical trial was planned to study the effect of an indigenous compound, “Shringyadi Churna” with and without Pranayama in the management of Tamaka Shwasa. After confirming the diagnosis, patients were randomly distributed in three groups, viz. Group I received Shringyadi Churna with Ushnodaka (Warm Water), Group II received the same with Pranayama, and Group III received Placebo with Pranayama. The duration of trial was 12 weeks and the patients were examined weekly for 6 weeks, there after every three weeks up to 12 weeks. The follow up period was of 2 months. The subjective & objective parameters were measured before & after treatment in each group. The result of „Shringyadi Churna along with Pranayama‟ was found to be significant at the level of P<0.001.

KEYWORDS: Tamaka Shwasa, Shringyadi Churna, Pranayama, Bronchial Asthma

Cite this article: Benjwal S (2013), A CLINICAL STUDY ON SHRINGYADI CHURNA WITH AND WITHOUT PRANAYAMA IN THE MANAGEMENT OF TAMAKA SHWASA (BRONCHIAL ASTHMA), Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 172–177

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 172–177

INTRODUCTION Tamaka Shwasa (Charaka, 200 BC) or bronchial asthma continues to be a distressing and alarming disease of the present world. Inspite of multidimensional development in the field of medical science, it still remained a challenge which is unconquered. Tamaka Shwasa is a yapya vyadhi (Difficult to treat) (Charaka, 200 BC) being paroxysmal in nature and it can prove fatal. Tamaka Shwasa closely resembles to bronchial asthma, which is manifested by widespread narrowing of the air passage and paroxysm of dyspnoea, cough and wheeze. It is also incurable in the opinion of modern medical science (Davidson‟s Principal and Practice of Medicine). However, various drug formulations and prescriptions have been advocated to cure Tamaka Shwasa in Ayurvedic Samhitas (Classical texts), Shringyadi Churna is one of the effective medicine for this dreadful disease-advocated by Acharya Chakrapani datta (1100 A.D.) in Chakradatta (A text authored by Chakrapani datta). The term Pranayama, fourth anga of Astanga yoga (8 levels of Yoga technique), has been derived from the root words- Prana and Ayama. Together they mean expansion or prolongation of life force. In the opinion of Maharishi Patanjali, Shwasa and Prashwasa are meant for inspiration and expiration respectively. The vital force of life i.e Prana is manifested externally by breath. Breath is sthoola (Visible) and Prana is Sukshma (Invisible). Thus Pranayama (Maharshi Patanjali, (200 BC) is breath control at the physical or sthoola level and simultaneously

Sl.No. 1 2 3 Sl.No. 1 2 3 4

Prana is controlled at Sukshma (Invisible) or subtle level. Hence a study was planned to evaluate the efficacy of Shringyadi Churna with and without Pranayama procedures with the help of modern parameters. MATERIAL AND METHODS: After confirming the diagnosis by taking history of every case in detail, physical and clinical examinations and laboratory investigation, 44 patients were selected from the O. P. D. & I. P. D. of Dept. of Kayachikitsa, State Ayurvedic College, Lucknow and were enrolled in the series and the patients were randomly distributed in the three groups, out of which 38 patients were completed the trial duration of 12 weeks and 6 were left the treatment in between the treatment. This trial was This trial was done after the approval of the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) Ref. no. ECL/AY/105/98, State Ayurvedic College, Lucknow. Group I: Shringyadi Churna was given in the dose of 2 gm (in capsule forma) T.D.S. with Ushnodak (Warm Water) Group II: The same Shringyadi Churna was given and patients were made to perform 20 round of Pranayama (Nadi Shodhan Pranayam) in morning and 20 rounds in the evening. Group III: Placebo (Glucose in the dose of 2 gm in capsule form) was given T.D.S. with 20 round of Pranayama in the morning and 20 rounds in the evening.

Inclusion Criteria Patient aged between 13–40 yrs Patient with classical symptoms of Tamaka Shwasa Patient not taking any other medicine for Tamaka Shwasa

Exclusion Criteria Patient below age 13 yrs Pregnant women & lactating mother Patients with uncontrolled Hypertension/Cardiac problem/ Diabetes mellitus. Patients already under modern medications for Bronchial asthma

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Assesment Criteria: Clinical AssessmentPatients were assessed on different parameters for obtaining the effect of therapy some clinical sign and symptoms like Shwasavega (Dyspnoea), Peenasa (Coryza), Ghur-Ghur shabda (Wheezing sound), Kasa (cough), Kastena Shleshma Nirharana (Difficulty in Expectoration), Kanthodhwansa (Hoarseness of Voice), Bhasna Krichata (Difficulty in speech), Parshva avagahana (tightness in chest), Lalat swedata (Sweating on forehead) were assessed on the basis of their presence and absence. Laboratory Assesament: a) Blood- T.L.C., D.L.C., Haemoglobin, E.S.R. b) Pulmonary function test-PEFR

the changes were recorded and calculated on thirty eight patients who completed the study period. The facts observed are presented in table no.1. Pulmonary Function Test Changes in PEFR (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate) In this study to measure the bronchodilator effect of drug and for the assessment of effect of Pranayama, PEFR (Peak Expiratory Flow Rate) (Davidson‟s Principal and Practice of Medicine) was assessed during the trial period. In group- I, „t‟ value was found 3.46 and P<0.01, in group-II, „t‟ value was found 3.55 and P<0.001 and in group-III, „t‟ value was found 2.29, P>0.05. Laboratory Investigation a) Total Leucocyte Count (T.L.C.)

Trial Drug review Shringyadi Churna has been described by Chakrapani dutta (1100 AD) in his renowned text “Chakradutta” (Hikka Shwasa Chikitsa 12/9). The contents of drug are Karkatashringi (Pistacia integrima) , Triphala [Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), Bibhitak (Terminalia bellirika) and Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica)], Trikatu [Shunthi (Zingiber officinale), Pippali (Piper longum) and Maricha (Piper nigrum)], Pushkarmoola (Inula racemosa), Kantakari (Solanum surattense), Bharangi (Clerodendrum serratum) and Panchalavan (five types of salt) Source of Drug Shringyadi Churna is prepared in the pharmaceutical division of State Ayurvedic College, Lucknow. All the drugs were taken in equal amount and pulverized and mixed well. Then the prepared drug was filled in capsules. RESULTS To observe the effect of the trial drug, 10 major signs and symptoms were considered and

No significant changes after the trial of 12 weeks in all the three groups. b) Differential Leucocyte Count (D.L.C.) Polymorphs: No significant changes were observed after the trial of 12 weeks in all the three groups. Lymphocyte: No significant changes after 12 weeks trial duration in all the three groups. Eosinophils: All the three groups showed reduction in mean eosinophil count with highest significance for group II. (In Group I „t‟ value was 2.81 and P<0.05), In Group II „t‟ value was 2.97 and P<0.01 and In Group III „t‟ value was 2.3 and P=0.05) (c) Haemoglobin: All the three groups showed increase in mean hemoglobin value with highest significance in group II. (In group I t-value = 2.47, P<0.05, in group II t-value = 2.51, P value <0.05, and is group III t-value = 2.16, P=0.05)

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 172–177

(d) Erythrocytic Sedimentation Rate (ESR) All the three groups showed reduction in mean ESR value, with highest significance in group II. (In group I t-value = 4.57, P<0.001, in group II t-value = 4.76, P value<0.001, and in group III t-value = 3.71, P<0.01) The clinical study on “Shringyadi Churna with and without Pranayama” has given a

relief in the patients of Tamaka Shwasa. On the basis of comparison of before and after trial observations, in the three groups, the fore most symptoms in 44 patients were Shwasa Vega (Paroxysmal dyspnoea) which was noted in 100% patients. After that Peenasa (Coryza), shabda (wheezing sound), sleshma vimokshante sukham (relief on expectoration) and nirbalata (weakness) were reported in 84% cases each.

Table No.1 STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF EFFECT OF THERAPY Symptoms

Shwasvega (Dyspnoea) Peenas (Coryza) Ghur Ghur shabda (Wheezing sound) Kasa (Cough) Kastena Sleshna Nirharn (Difficulty in expectoration) Kanthodhwansa (Hoarseness of voke) Bhasan Krichchata (Difficulty in speech) Parshva avagrahan (Tightness of chest) Lalat Swedata (Swelling on forehead) Ronchi

Group I Mean

X

2

P value

Group II Mean

X

2

P value

Group III Mean

X2

P value

BT 100%

AT 76.92%

13.16

.001

BT 100%

AT 80%

16.81

.001

BT 100%

AT 50%

4.27

0.05

76.92% 92.3%

70% 91.6%

5.54 15.38

0.05 0.001

86.66% 88.66%

76.92% 92.3%

8.69 18.53

.01 .001

80% 80%

37.5% 62.5%

.88 3.33

.05 .05

84.6% 84.6%

63.63% 72.72%

5.67 7.58

<.05 <.01

80% 86.66%

75% 84.6%

13.36 7.58

<.001 .01

100% 70%

40% 57.6%

.20 1.80

<.05 <0.05

38.46%

60%

.78

>.05

26.66%

100%

2.6

<.05

40%

75%

1.7

>.05

69.23%

88.88%

7.96

<0.01

80%

91.66%

13.57

<.001

40%

75%

1.07

>.05

76.92%

70%

5.54

<.05

60%

77.77%

5.17

<.05

80%

25%

2.4

>.05

61.5%

100%

8.85

<0.001

60%

88.88%

7.35

0.01

60%

66.66%

1.88

>.05

92.30%

66.66%

5.49

<0.05

92.33

85.71%

16.21

<0.001

90%

55.55%

1.76

>0.05

DISCUSSION: Tamaka Shwasa is primarily a disease of Prana vaha Srotas (respiratory system) and is produced by vitiation of Vata and Kapha, in which vitiated Kapha obstructs the Prana vaha

Srotas causing hindrance in the path of vayu, which then spreads in different directions causing disorders of respiration. Acharya Charaka specifically mentioned the Samprapti (Pathogenesis) of Tamaka Shwasa has said that “Pratilome vayu”. As a result of airway

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 172–177

obstruction due to Kapha involving the head and neck. there will be increase in the shleshma secretion and produces Shwasa vega (dyspnoea), Peenasa (coryza) and Ghur-ghur Shabda (wheezing sound) (Charaka, 200BC). Further, five varieties of Shwasa roga namely Maha Shwasa, Urdhwa Shwasa, Chhinna Shwasa, Kshudra Shwasa and Tamaka Shwasa have been described by Acharyas. Tamaka Shwasa can lead to Pratamaka and Santamaka if Pitta Dosa also gets vitiated in these patients (Sushrut, 2000BC). These could be considered as further stages of Tamaka Shwasa. In Ayurvedic texts various methods and Formulations have been described in the management of Tamaka Shwasa roga. Two types of chikitsa i.e. Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa have been dealt in detail with description. In Ayurvedic literature no description of Prana yama has been mentioned but involvement of Pranvayu (Inhaled Air) in various respiratory disorders has been described. So, the present clinical trial was planned to study the effect of an indigenous compound, Shringyadi Churna with and without Pranayama in the management of Tamaka Shwasa. The duration of trial was 12 weeks and the patients were examined weekly for 6 weeks, there after every three weeks upto 12 weeks and he follow up period was of 2 months. On the basis of comparison of before and after trial in three groups following point have emerged: a) 7 (58.85%) cases in Group I, 10 (66.67%) cases in Group II were cured and 4 (30.76%), 3 (20%) and 4 (40%) cases in Group I, II, III respectively showed improvement. b) No any toxicity or untoward side effects has been noted during the trial period.

c) On the basis of Statistical test, it can be concluded that Pranayama has shown excellent improvement in PEFR of the patient of Group II with maximum no. of patients achieving a PEFR value between 90–100% of their normal predicted value according to height and age. d) The drug has shown effectiveness in lowering the raised eosinophils and ESR in the patients of Tamaka Shwasa. e) Statistically the Shringyadi Churna with Pranayam (in group II) was highly significant. (P<0.001). Then the result of treatment with Shringyadi Churna without Pranayama (in group I) was significant (P<0.01). The Placebo with Pranayama (in group III) was less significant (P<0.005) as compare to other groups. CONCLUSION The therapeutic efficacy of Shringyadi Churna with and without Prana yama was studied on 38 cases with Tamaka Shwasa in this series. This compound is well accepted, well tolerated, and easily available and does not have any side effect. Therapeutic efficacy of “Trial drug along with Pranayama”, on clinical and pathological investigations which were given above and in table no.1 has shown highly significant improvement. Peak expiratory flow rate assessment before and after trial duration reveals that the best achievement of normal predicted PEFR according to their height and age. The clinical work was a time bound study, so to obtain a better result and satisfactory therapeutic response, the trial must be taken in large number of cases for a long duration of time and the follow up period must be long. Therefore, the drug „Shringyadi Churna along with Prana yama‟ may prove a valuable contribution from Ayurveda and Yoga-shastra (Gherand Samhita), to the ailing humanity.

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 172–177

REFERENCES Charak, (200 BC), „Ayurveda Deepika‟ Hindi Commentary by Tripathy Brahmanand on Charaka Samhita, 6th Edition, Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan; 1999, Varanasi, Vol. I & II: Chikitsasthan- Chapter-17/55–64, Page No.623 Chakrapanidatta (11th AD), „Chakradutta‟ written by Acharya Chakrapanidatta, (2009) 3rd Edition, Chaukhambha Surbharati Prakashan, Varanasi, Hikka Shwasa Chikitsa 12/9. Gherand Samhita (1997), Yogshastram, khemraj srikrishnadas pub., Bombay, Page no. 52, 57

Source of Support: Nil

Davidson, (1999) Davidson‟s Principal and Practice of Medicine, 18th Edi. Churchill Livingstone Publication, Page 326–335 Bhava Mishra, (16th AD): Bhav Prakash Nighantu Edited By G.S.Pandey And K.C. Chunekar, (1995) 10th Edition, Chaukambha Bharti Academy, Varanasi. Maharshi Patanjali, (200 BC): Patanjal Yog Darshanam, Vyasbhashya Hindi Translation And Commentary By Srimat Swami Hariharanand Aranya. Edited By Dr. Ramshankar Bhattacharya, (1974), Motilal Banarasidas Publication, Delhi, Page No. 241.

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 178–182 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Research article PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDY OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTION OF HARITAKI PREPARATIONS ON WISTAR RATS IN HEMORRHOIDS (PILES)

Pampattiwar S P1*, Adwani N V2, Bulusu Sitaram3, Paramkusha Rao M4 P.G. Scholar – Final Year, P.G. Dept. of Dravyaguna, S.V. Ayurveda College, Tirupati. Professor (UG), Dept. of Dravyaguna, S.V. Ayurveda College, Tirupati, *Corresponding Author: E mail: Email: vd.yash.728@gmail.com; Mobile: +91 9700307493. 1, 2 3, 4

Received: 05/02/2013; Revised: 27/02/2013; Accepted: 01/03/ 2013

ABSTRACT The main aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory properties of Ayurvedic preparation of Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) on wistar rats. Anti-inflammatory activity of Ayurvedic preparations such as Haritaki powder with Anupana (vehicle) buttermilk, Guda Haritaki powder with distilled water and Guda Haritaki powder with anupana (vehicle) butter milk at a dose of 85 mg/kg, orally was evaluated against the standard drug indomethacin at a dose of 10 mg/kg orally. Wistar rats of either sex of five numbers in each group was undertaken for study and evaluated by carrageenan-induced paw edema method. Haritaki powder with Anupana (vehicle) buttermilk and Guda Haritaki powder with distilled water treated groups showed significant reduction in the carrageenan induced paw edema (P< 0.01) when compared to control group rats. The Ayurvedic preparations of Haritaki have potential anti-inflammatory activity and hence could be established by further more studies. KEYWORDS: Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula), anti-inflammatory, carrageenan-induced paw edema.

Cite this article: Pampattiwar S P, Adwani N V, Bulusu Sitaram, Paramkusha Rao M (2013), PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDY OF ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTION OF HARITAKI PREPARATIONS ON WISTAR RATS IN HEMORRHOIDS (PILES), Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 178–182

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 178–182

INTRODUCTION Inflammation is a local response of living mammalian tissues to injury due to any agent. It is a protective and defensive mechanism of body. Inflammation is of two types - acute and chronic. There are various components responsible to an inflammatory reaction such as edema formation, leukocyte infiltration and granuloma formation that can contribute to the associated symptoms and tissue injury (Brooks, 1991). No matter what the initiating stimulus, the classic inflammatory response includes calor (warmth), dolor (pain), rubor (redness), and tumor (swelling) (Harsh Mohan, 2002). Inflammation is considered as a primary physiologic defense mechanism that helps body to protect itself against infection, burn, toxic chemicals, allergens or other noxious stimuli. An uncontrolled and persistent inflammation may act as an etiologic factor for many of these chronic illnesses (Kumar V, 2004). It can be evoked by a wide variety of noxious agents (e.g., infections, antibodies, or physical injuries). Some of the inflammatory disorders include Atherosclerosis, asthma, irritable bowel syndromes, Nephritis, hepatitis, arthritis, colitis, nephritis etc. Inflammatory responses occur in three distinct temporal phases, each apparently mediated by different mechanisms: (1) an acute phase characterized by transient local vasodilation and increased capillary permeability; (2) a delayed, subacute phase characterized by infiltration of leukocytes and phagocytic cells; and (3) a chronic proliferative phase, in which tissue degeneration and fibrosis occur. Hemorrhoids are swollen inflamed veins around the anus or in the lower rectum. About 75 percent of people will have hemorrhoids at some point in their lives (Baker H., 2006). Hemorrhoids are most common among adults ages 45–65 as well as in pregnant women. (Chong PS, 2008). Various medicinal plant drugs are used in the treatment of Arshas (Hemorrhoids) and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) is one of them, which is also

cited in Charaka’s “Arshoghna Mahakashaya” (Sastri Satya Narayana, 2002). The pathophysiology of hemorrhoid disease in producing acute and chronic symptoms is likely multifactorial involving both anatomic and inflammatory components. The inflammatory component from venous stasis and resulting vascular fragility seems to represent a significant clinical component. Therefore anti inflammatory drugs also plays an important role in the conservative management of hemorrhoids (Jon M Hain, 2011). There are list of complications occurring as a result of taking anti inflammatory drugs like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, acid peptic disorders etc. To avoid the above complications, it would be better to go with herbal drugs for the management of Hemorrhoids. In Ashtanga Hridaya, it is advised to use Haritaki along with Takra (Buttermilk) to reduce the doshas which are indulged in the anal region in the patients of Arshas (Tripathi Bramhananda 2007). Some Maharashtrian Vaidyas also have tradition to use Haritaki along with Takra to reduce the pain and swelling in the initial treatment management of Arshas (Ogale, 1921). Pathya takrena va saha….hrite gudashraye doshe gudaja yanti samkshayam (A. H. Chi 8/58) When there are symptoms like swelling, spasmodic pain and itching in the rectal area it is advised to use Haritaki along with Guda (Jaggary) in Ashtanga Hridaya (Tripathi Bramhananda 2007). Gudshwayathushularto… haritaki (A. H. Chi 8/33)

Khaadet

guda

Therefore the present study has been carried out to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of Ayurvedic preparation of Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula).

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 178–182

MATERIALS AND METHODS Materials In the present study Terminalia chebula fruits were used (Seedless) as medicine. Three Types of Haritaki i.e. Rangari, Survari and Bal are available in the market of which Survari type of Haritaki was selected for the present study. Fruits of Haritaki were procured from Chennai market (N. Shobhakant). The fruiting season could not be ascertained as the raw material was procured from the market. Fruit pericarp was used in the drug. (Fruits were taken around 10.5 kg) Seeds were separated and removed and the pericarp was powdered and sieved. 9 Kg was the total yield which indicates a loss of 1.5 kgs during the process Preparation of Guda Haritaki • • • • • • •

Guda Haritaki was prepared according to Bhavprakasha (Arsha chikitsa). (Nanal P. G, 1929) Equal quantity of Haritaki and Purana guda were taken (4 kg of Haritaki powder and 4 kg Purana guda i.e. old jaggary. First Guda was crushed and made into a powder. It was melted over heat after adding little water. Then the liquid Guda was filtered by using cloth. Then Haritaki powder was mixed. Then mixture was allowed to dry in shade.

Experimental Animals Adult Albino Wistar rats weighing about 150–200 g of either sex were procured from the animal house of Krishna Teja College of Pharmacy, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India. The animals were maintained in a wellventilated animal house approved by Committee for the Purpose of Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals (CPCSEA), with 12:12 hour light/dark cycle in polypropylene cages with 27 ± 2°C

temperature. The animals were given standard diet. Experimental Design Group I: group]

Buttermilk (3 ml, p.o.) [Control

Group II: Indomethacin (10 mg/kg, p.o) [Standard group] Group III: Haritaki powder (85 mg/kg) with Anupana (vehicle) buttermilk orally, p.o. Group IV: Guda Haritaki powder (85 mg/kg) with distilled water, p.o. Group V: Guda Haritaki powder (85 mg/kg) with anupana (vehicle) buttermilk, p.o. The anti-inflammatory activity of Ayurvedic preparation of Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) was determined using carrageenan induced rat paw edema assay. (Winter CA, 1962). After 30 mins of the treatment, 0.1 ml of 1% carrageenan in saline was injected into the sub plantar region of the left hind paw of each rat to induce edema. The paw volume was measured initially and at intervals of 0, 30, 60, 120, 180 min after carrageenan injection by volume displacement method using Plethysmometer by immersing the paw in mercury cell. The percentage inhibition of paw volume in drug treated group was compared with control group. Indomethacin (10 mg/kg) was used as standard drug. The percentage inhibition of paw edema was calculated by using the following formula; Percentage of edema inhibition = (Vc -Vt/Vc) × 100

Vc- Volume of paw edema in control group Vt- volume of paw edema in treated group Statistical analysis Results were expressed as Mean ± S.E.M and statistical significance was calculated by applying one way ANOVA followed by dunnett’s test. P<0.05 was considered as significant.

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 178–182

Table 1. Effect of ayurvedic preparation of Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula) on carrageenan induced induced paw edema

Treatment & Dose

Paw edema volume (ml)

Percentage of inhibition

0 min

30 min

60 min

120 min

180 min

Group I (Buttermilk 3 ml, p.o.)

74.83 ± 1.222

1.66 ± 0.0175

1.78 ± 0.0262

1.82 ± 0.0194

1.89 ± 0.0187

Group II (Indomethacin, 10 mg/kg, p.o)

75.5 ± 0.9916

1.07 ± 0.0147**

0.93 ± 0.0112**

0.81 ± 0.0225**

0.69 ± 0.0189**

63.49

Group III Haritaki powder with anupana Takra (85mg/kg, p.o)

73.83 ± 1.249

1.54 ± 0.0154**

1.45 ± 0.0121**

1.07 ± 0.0101**

0.95 ± 0.0116**

49.74

Group IV Guda Haritaki powder with distilled H2O (85mg/kg, p.o)

75.83 ± 0.8724

1.43 ± 0.0115**

1.21 ± 0.0182**

0.95 ± 0.0083**

0.81 ± 0.0118**

57.14

Guda Haritaki powder with anupana Takra (85mg/kg, p.o)

73.17 ± 0.8724

1.62 ± 0.0099

1.54 ± 0.0148**

1.24 ± 0.0189**

1.12 ± 0.0192**

40.74

Values are expressed as mean ± SEM (n=6), *p<0.05; **p<0.01 denotes significance with respect to the control group using one way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s test.

RESULTS Anti-inflammatory effect of Haritaki was observed and found to be significant at the level of p<0.01 when compared with the vehicle butter milk (control group) and indomethacin (Standard) (Table 1). The percent inhibition in paw edema after 3 h were recorded 63.49 % in case of indomethacin, 49.74%, 57.14 and 40.74 % in case of Haritaki powder with anupana Takra (buttermilk) (85 mg/kg, p.o), Guda Haritaki powder with distilled H2O (85 mg/kg, p.o) and Guda Haritaki powder with anupana Takra (buttermilk) (85 mg/kg, p.o) respectively. DISCUSSION Anti-inflammatory activity was determined by using inhibition of carrageenan-induced inflammation which is one of the most feasible methods to screen anti-inflammatory agents. The development of carrageenan induced edema is bi-phasic; the first phase is attributed to the release of histamine, serotonin and kinins

and the second phase is related to the release of prostaglandins and bradykinins. (Brooks PM 1991) It was observed that ayurvedic preparation of Haritaki possessed significant inhibition against carrageenan induced paw edema in rats. This response tendency of the extract in carrageenan-induced paw edema revealed good peripheral anti-inflammatory properties of the ayurvedic preparation of Haritaki. CONCLUSION The present study concluded that Haritaki had a better effect on treating carrageenan induced rat paw edema. Therefore this Haritaki has got definite effect in reducing the inflammatory components. Further, extraction of the active ingredient responsible for the above cited results along with biochemical analyses, evaluating its role in inhibition of various inflammatory mediators like COX, LOX and TNF-α, and subsequent human trials may further elucidate the potential role of Haritaki in treating inflammation.

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REFERENCES Baker H (2006), Hemorrhoids. In: Longe JL, ed. Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. 3rd ed. Detroit: Gale, pp 1766–1769.

Kumar V, Abbas AK and Fausto N (2004), Robbins and Cotran pathologic basis of disease, 7thedn, Elsevier Saunders (Philadelphia), pp. 47–86.

Brooks PM, Day RO (1991),Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: difference and similarities. N. Engl. J. Med, pp 324: 1716.

Nanal P. G.(1929), Sartha Bhavaprakash, Shri Gajanan Publication, 1st edn, Pune; pp 427.

Chong PS, Bartolo DCC (2008), Hemorrhoids and fissure in ano. Gastroenterology Clinics of North America. 37: pp 627– 644. Harsh

Mohan (2002), Inflammation and Healing. Text book of Pathology, Ed Jaypee Publication (New Delhi), pp 114–121.

Jon M Hain. (2011), Medical treatment of hemorrhoids using flavonoids, Practical Gastroenterology, pp.1.

Source of Support: Nil

Ogale Prabhakar (1921), Chikitsa Prabhakar, Rajesh publication, 1st edn, Gultekdi Pune, pp 442 Sastri Satya Narayana (2002), Charaka Samhita ‘Vidyoitini’ vyakhya, Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, 2nd edn, Varanasi, pp 81. Tripathi Bramhananda (2007), Ashtang Hridayam, Chaukhambha Sanskrit Pratisthan, 2nd edn, Delhi pp.661, 664. Winter CA, Risley EA, Nuss GW (1962), Carrageenin-induced oedema in hind paws of the rat as an assay for antiinflammatory drugs. Proc. Soc. Exp. Biol. Med.; 111: pp 544–547.

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 183–188 ISSN 2277-4289 | www.gjrmi.com | International, Peer reviewed, Open access, Monthly Online Journal

Case Study SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS: A CASE STUDY IN AYURVEDIC SETTINGS Mahesh MP1, Niranjan Y2*, Mayya Jagadeesha A3 1

PG Scholar, Dept. of PG studies in Kayachikitsa, ALN Rao Memorial Ayurvedic Medical College, Koppa. Chikmagalore Dt. PIN: 577126 Karnataka INDIA 2

Lecturer/ Physician, Dept. of PG studies in Kayachikitsa, ALN Rao Memorial Ayurvedic Medical College, Koppa. Chikmagalore Dt. PIN: 577126 Karnataka INDIA 3

Lecturer/ Physician, Dept. of PG studies in Bhaishajya Kalpana, ALN Rao Memorial Ayurvedic Medical College, Koppa. Chikmagalore Dt. PIN: 577126 Karnataka INDIA * Corresponding Author; Email: ayurniranjan@gmail.com

Received: 10/02/2013; Revised: 05/03/2013; Accepted: 08/03/2013

ABSTRACT Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem disorder of unknown cause characterized by fibrosis of skin, blood vessels, and visceral organs including the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, heart, and kidneys. There are two distinct clinical presentations viz., Diffuse and limited forms. We are herewith reporting a case of diffuse cutaneous scleroderma in a 21 year old female student. The possible understanding of the case in terms of Ayurveda and a therapeutic protocol with promising result has beendiscussed. KEYWORDS: Systemic Sclerosis, Scleroderma, Ayurveda, Vatavyadhi

Cite this article: Mahesh MP, Niranjan Y, Mayya Jagadeesha A (2013), SYSTEMIC SCLEROSIS: A CASE STUDY IN AYURVEDIC SETTINGS, Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med., Volume 2(3): 183–188

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 183–188

INTRODUCTION: Scleroderma is derived from the Greek words Sckleros (hard or indurated) and derma (skin). It was initially defined by Hippocrates, but a detailed description was given by Carlo Curzio (Sapadin AN, Fleischmajer R. 2002). Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem disorder of unknown cause characterized by fibrosis of skin, blood vessels, and visceral organs including the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, heart, and kidneys (Fauci AS et.al., 1998). There are two overlapping forms. Limited cutaneous scleroderma is limited to the skin on the face, hands and feet. Diffuse cutaneous scleroderma covers more of the skin, and is at risk of progressing to the visceral organs, including the kidneys; heart, lungs and gastrointestinal tract are affected. Annual incidence is 19 per million, and prevalence is 19–75 per 100,000. Women are roughly four times more likely than men to develop systemic scleroderma (http:// www.clevelandclinicmeded.com). Incidence is twice as high among African Americans, and the Choctow Native Americans in Oklahoma have the highest prevalence in the world (469/100,000). The interval of peak onset starts at age 30–35 and ends at age 50–55 (Bermas BL, 2009 and www.umm.edu) coinciding with the greatest changes in hormone levels (Chifflot H et.al., 2009). There is some hereditary association, some suggestion of immune reaction (molecular mimicry) to a virus, and some cases caused by toxins (Kasper et.al., 2005). The outstanding feature of SSc is overproduction and accumulation of collagen and other extracellular matrix proteins in the skin and other organs. While the pathogenesis of SSc remains to be further elucidated, the disease process involves immunologic mechanisms, vascular damage, and activation of fibroblasts (Fauci AS et.al., 1998). Clinical manifestations of Reynaud’s phenomenon, skin thickening, telangiectasia are most commonly encountered. Arthralgias, myopathy, esophageal dysmotility, pulmonary fibrosis,

pulmonary hypertension are also observed (Fauci AS et.al., 1998). At present there are no specific diagnostic tests for SSc and the disorder is diagnosed primarily based on the collective appearance of a cluster of clinical symptoms, such as Raynaud’s phenomenon, telangiectasias, esophageal dysfunction with gastro-esophageal reflux, characteristic pigmentary changes, or presence of digital ulcers or calcinotic lesions accompanying clinically detectable skin induration. It is well recognized that the presence of specific autoantibodies is one of the most common manifestations of SSc and greater than 90% of SSc patients harbor antinuclear antibodies in their serum. Numerous autoantibodies have been described in SSc patients, some of these are highly specific for SSc, including anti-Scl-70 and anticentromere antibodies, and these have, therefore, been used as diagnostic biomarkers to support or confirm the clinical diagnosis of SSc. Anti-Scl-70 antibodies are directed against DNA topoisomerase I and are almost exclusively present in the sera of patients with the diffuse form of SSc (Castro SV, Jimmenez SA, 2010 and Jimenez SA, Derk CT 2004). The many complications of scleroderma can have a major impact on a person's sense of well-being. Patients are greatly concerned about changes in their appearance, particularly those changes caused by tightening of the facial skin. Depression has great impact, along with pain, on reducing patients' ability to function socially (http://www.umm.edu). Prognosis is difficult to predict until the disease differentiates into recognizable subsets. Patients with limited cutaneous scleroderma have a good prognosis, with 10-year survival of 75%, although <10% develop pulmonary arterial hypertension after 10–20 years. Patients with diffuse cutaneous scleroderma have a 10year survival of 55%. Death is most often from pulmonary, heart and kidney involvement, although survival has greatly improved with effective treatments for kidney failure. Immunosuppressive drugs are used, although

Global Journal of Research on Medicinal Plants & Indigenous Medicine || GJRMI ||


Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 183–188

glucocorticoids have limited application (www.en.wikipedia.org). Various therapeutic modalities are being used for the treatment of localized scleroderma. There is no precise treatment scheme for this disease. A majority of patients can be successfully treated with topical therapy and phototherapy, but the progressive forms of the disease with intensely expressed skin sclerosis sometimes may need even systemic treatment (Braun-Falco O et.al., 2004). Hence an attempt is made to explain the condition in Ayurveda and to derive a treatment strategy. CASE STUDY: A 21 year old college student was referred from peripheral outpatient department to Kayachikitsa department of the central hospital on December 26, 2012 with complaints of gradually progressive feeling of tightness of the

skin and face with skin thickening. She also had joint pain involving small joints of hands & wrists, elbows, shoulders and knee. There was h/o difficulty in squatting, getting up from squatting position. She also had Raynaud’s phenomenon, digital calcinosis, weight loss since onset of illness with discoloration of the neck region, (Fig. No.1) hair fall and general weakness were also seen. Her ANA Profile for Scl 70 was ++ (strong positive). Pulmonary function tests were technically poor (restriction) and poor patient effort. Hemoglobin 11.4g%, Total leucocyte count 5950/mm3, Differential count was 59% of neutrophils, 38% of lymphocytes, 02% monocytes and 01% eosinophils, ESR was 10 mm/1st hr, routine urine examination was within the normal range.

Fig. No. 1: Clinical features

1.1 Shiny, taut facial skin, 1.2 Digital calcinosis, 1.3 calcinosis in the sole, 1.4 Skin induration, 1.5 Sclerodactyly, 1.6 & 1.7 Discoloration at elbow

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 183–188

Her vitals were stable with Height 160 cm, Weight - 38 kg, B.P. - 100/70 mm of Hg. On examination, she demonstrated srotodushti (morbidity of channels) of Annava (food transportation) as aruchi (anorexia), Rasavaha srotas (channels carrying food) as Aruchi (anorexia), pandutwa (paleness) and krushangata (leanness). Raktavaha srotas (blood carrying channel) with Skin lesions, Asthivaha srotas (channels carrying osseous tissue) as Vaivarnya (discolouration), asthisoola (pain in bone), Majjavahasrotas (channels carrying components of bone marrow) as parvaruk (pain in joints) and Swedavahasrotas (channels carrying sweat) as Aswedana (absence of perspiration) and parushyam (roughness). DISCUSSION: Looking in to the clinical presentation of the case, the following probable diagnoses were contemplated; Vatarakta, Amavata, Kushta

(obstinate skin diseases) and Twakgatavata (Vayu located in skin). The presentation of Reynaud’s phenomenon on exposure to cold, shiny taut skin over extensor surfaces, sclerodactyly and digital calcinosis, the involvement of vitiated Vata (bio-humour) is obvious in terms of shyavaarunavarna (bluish discoloration) (Acharya YT, 1994) over extremities, an increase of kharatwa (roughness) and rookshatwa (dryness) of Vata. The salt and pepper discoloration pointing towards Charmakushta (Skin disorder characterized by thickening of skin) (Acharya YT, 1994) (Fig.No. 2), resembling the skin of an elephant. The thinning of skin is a feature in TwakgataVata (vayu located in skin) (Acharya YT, 1994). The digital calcinosis progressing in to rat-bite necrosis (Haustein UF, 2002) typically draws attention to the akhuvisha (rat bite poisoning) (Acharya YT, 2003 and Khunte AM, 2002) simile in Vatarakta.

Fig. No.2 Salt and pepper discoloration in the nape (image 2.1) resembling the skin of elephant

A complex multifactorial etiopathogenesis was finally accepted based on the following logical sequence; the disease has hereditary role, supporting a genetic mutation and autoimmunity, similarly Kushta has beejadosha (genetic) as a factor. The peripheral features of scleroderma resembles the laxanas (signs and symptoms) of Vatarakta (Acharya YT, 1994); of both uttana and gambhira nature at various

instances of disease progression. The cutaneous manifestations mimic a particular variety of Kushta especially Charmakhya of Vataja type. The joint manifestations point towards Amavata (Murthy PHC, 2006) or Sandhivata (Khunte AM, 2002) features. However systemic involvement may denote various srotodushti (vitiation of channels) features. Hence, a complex pathological process duly

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 183–188

constituted by vitiated Vata by means of affliction of twak (skin) with the following samprapti ghataka (factors of pathogenesis); Vatapradhana Kapha are the involved Dosha (bodily humor), Dushya (vitiated bodily tissue) being Twak (skin), Snayu (ligaments), Sira (veins), Kandara (tendons) and Jatharagni (digestive fire) in mandavastha (diminished) and Ama (unprocessed food) born out of it. Many srotas (channels) are involved in the later stages with primary Rasavaha Srotodusti (morbid food carrying channels) of Sanga (obstruction) type followed by Vimargagamana (diversion of flow of the contents to improper channels). The Doshakopa (aggravated bodily humor) begins at Amapakwashaya, moving through Rasayani (circulatory channel) and settling at Twak (skin). Scleroderma being a physical illness, adhisthana (substratum) is Shareera (physical body). The disease has Bahyarogamarga (external pathological route) involved extending in to Madhyama (median route of pathogenesis). Oil application slightly improving the dryness and tightness of skin may be considered as Upashaya (symptomatic relief). Upadrava like Pulmonary hypertension, involvement of Sandhi (joints), Sira (blood vessels), Snayu (ligaments) are observed as complications. The conclusion regarding the diagnosis was derived as a complex syndrome dominated by prakupita Vata (vitiated vata) taking ashraya(base) in rasa (circulating fluid tissue), later the samprapti (pathogenesis)extends to deeper tissues especially sira (blood vessels) , kandara (tendons), snayu (ligaments) and asthisandhi (bony joints). In therapeutic perspective, the condition is managed with Vataprasamana (pacifying Vata) and raktaprasadana (pacifying Rakta) line of treatment in accordance with the chikitsa (treatment) advocated for Vatavyadhi (Acharya YT, 1994 and Khunte AM, 2002) and

Vatarakta (Acharya YT, 1994) in classical Ayurvedic literatures. TREATMENT PROTOCOL: On the day of admission, Agnideepana (improving digestive fire), amapachana line was adopted using Hingvashtaka choorna. Abhyanga (oil massage) was done in the next two days with Yashtimadhu taila and sweda (sudation) using the Nadee sweda apparatus. On the third day, Koshtashodhana was done with Gandharvahastadi eranda taila 30 ml in the morning at 6.30 AM. Avarasuddhi was observed. Samsarjana advised for three annakala (time of food intake). Yogavasti (medicated enema schedule) is planned considering the Samprapti Ghataka with Anuvasana (oil enema) of Yashtimadhu taila and Ksheerabala taila 60 ml with 5 g of saindhava lavana Erandamuladi nirooha was carried out as Asthapanavasti (decoction enema) using Erandamula kwatha-500ml, Ksheerabala taila + yashtimadhu taila-75ml, Madhu (honey)-25ml, Saindhava (rock salt)10g and Sathapushpa kalka (Anethum sowa powder)- 20 g. On discharge, she was prescribed with Manjishtadi Kwatha 25ml twice daily,Tablets of Kaishora guggulu 2 with Kwatha, Kamadugha rasa tablet twice daily. Guggulutikthaka ghrita 10 ml after food as shaman sneha. Yashtimadhu taila was advised for external application. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION After 3 months of active treatment in the above lines, the patient was happy with relieved tightness over skin of face and limbs, improved ability to perform normal activities and an enhanced overall quality of life. This example may be a silver lining in the horizon for the mankind with Scleroderma.

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Global J Res. Med. Plants & Indigen. Med. | Volume 2, Issue 3 | March 2013 | 183–188

dermatology.cdlib.org/DOJvol8num1/ reviews/scleroderma/haustein.html#45.

REFERENCES Acharya YT, (1994) Charaka Samhita, Chakrapani Teeka, 4th edition, Varanasi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Samsthana, Chi 7/34, Chi. 7/21, Chi 28/30, Chi 29/19–23, Chi. 28/ 75–82 and Chi. 29/41–42 Acharya YT, (2003) Sushrutha Samhita with the Nibandhasangraha commentary of Dalhana, Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surabharati Pratishtan, Ni 1/48 Pp. 264 Bermas BL, (2009) Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) and pregnancy. Retrieved on Dec 13, from www.uptodate.com/patients/content/top ic.do?. Braun-Falco O, Plewig G, Wolff HH, Burgdorf WHC. (2004) Diseases of connective tissue. In: Dermatology and venereology. Berlin: Springer; Pp. 785– 8. Castro SV, Jimmenez SA, (2010) Biomarkers in systemic sclerosis, Biomarkers Med. 4(1), 133–147 Chifflo T H, Fautrel B, Sordet C, Chatelus E, Sibilia J, (2008) Incidence and Prevalence of Systemic Sclerosis: A Systematic Literature Review . Semin Arthritis Rheum. 37:223–235 Fauci AS, Dennis Kasper, Stephen Hauser, J. Jameson, Joseph Loscalzo (1998) Harrison’s Principles of internal medicine. 14th Ed. Vol. 2, New York, Pp 1888, 1889 and 1891 Haustein UF. (2002) Dermatology Online Journal, Vol. 8. downloaded from

Source of Support: Nil

http://

www.clevelandclinicmeded.com/ medicalpubs/ diseasemanagement/ rheumatology/ systemic-sclerosis/ accessed on February 12, 2013.

http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/how_se rious_scleroderma_000088_5.htm#ixzz 2LWfKH71F Jimenez SA, Derk CT, (2004) "Following the molecular pathways toward an understanding of the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis". Ann. Intern. Med. 140 (1): 37–50. PMID 14706971 Kasper, Dennis L; Braunwald, Eugene; Fauci, Anthony; (2005). Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th ed. New York: McGraw-Hill. ISBN 0-07139140-7 Khunte AN, (2002) Ashtanga Hridaya with Sarvangasundara and Ayurveda RasayanaTeeka, Varanasi, Chaukhamba Surabharati Prakashana,. Ni. 15/ 14, Ni. 16/7, Su.13/1–3. Murthy PHC Ed. (2006) MadhavaNidana, Chaukhambha Sanskrit Series Office, Varanasi. 25/6–9 Pp 273 Sapadin AN, Fleischmajer R. (2002) Treatment of Sclerodrma. Arch. Dermatol. 138:99–105. University of Maryland Medical Center. www.umm.edu/ patiented/ article/ who_gets _scleroderma_ 000088_4.htm. www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Systemic_sclerode rma accessed on February 20, 2013.

Conflict of Interest: None Declared

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