Sciences of Phytochemistry

Ahmed Abd El-Moniem Amer

Migraine is a common neurological disorder that may be accompanied by vascular disturbances, Migraine is one of the most causes of disability worldwide. Zingiber officinale is a medicinal herb that has an analgesic effect on many disorders such as headaches, migraine, muscle tension, stomach spasm, and dysmenorrhea. Also, ginger has many pharmacological actions used to treat and prevent various common symptoms and diseases. This review aims to evaluate the potential of ginger to treat or prevent migraine episodes. Especially nowadays, patients prefer herbal and complementary medicine to avoid the hard side effects of chemical drugs. The author searched several databases including PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley Online, and Scopus through February 2023 for recent articles with good quality evaluating the potential of ginger to treat migraine patients. The author made investigations and Interpretations depending on the results of the authors' experiments in previous articles included in my review. It is suggested that the bioactive compounds in ginger have the potential to treat and prevent acute migraine episodes effectively and safely. The author recommends encouraging the manufacturing of different pharmaceutical dosage forms of ginger extract to be used worldwide in a safe way and to render a higher absorption rate, and pharmacological response.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Kalyani Pathak, Riya Saikia, Aparoop Das

Garcinia cowa Rox. is a tropical fruit traditionally used in various parts of Asia for medicinal purposes. Recent research has indicated that it may have potential as an antidiabetic drug. Studies have shown that the extract from the fruit of G. cowa can lower blood glucose levels in diabetic rats. This effect is believed to be due to various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and xanthones, which have demonstrated antidiabetic properties. In addition, fruit extract has also been found to improve lipid metabolism, often disrupted in individuals with diabetes. The extract has been shown to reduce levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Further studies are needed to explore the full potential of G. cowa as an antidiabetic drug, including clinical trials in humans. However, these initial findings suggest that this tropical fruit is a promising natural and effective treatment option for individuals with diabetes.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Nahar Uddin Barbhuyan, Dubom Tayeng, Neelutpal Gogoi, Lima Patowary, Dipak Chetia, Malita Sarma Barthakur

A prominent class of broad-spectrum antibiotics known as tetracycline works by inhibiting the synthesis of proteins, which prevents the development of bacteria. Tetracycline resistance is typically attributed to one or more of the following causes: ribosomal binding site mutations, acquisition of mobile genetic elements carrying tetracycline-specific resistance genes, and/or chromosomal mutations that increase the expression of intrinsic resistance mechanisms. In this research, our objective is to virtually plan and conduct in-silico experiments to find tetracycline derivatives with inhibitory capability against tetracycline resistance protein. The tetracycline derivatives were screened using the Data Warrior, Discovery Studio, PyRx, and Swiss ADME web tools. Initially, 19 tetracycline derivatives were primarily screened for ADME and toxicity study followed by docking study. Among the tetracycline derivatives, C1, C11, C12, C14, C16, and C17 were found to be the potential drug-like molecules with binding energies of -8.9 kcal/mol, -8.4 kcal/mol, -8.5 kcal/mol, -7.7 kcal/mol, -7.7 kcal/mol, -8.6 kcal/mol respectively. In particular, C1 was predicted to have a better binding affinity towards the target protein than the others.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Kavitha Karthik Pai, Neethu Mathews, Meenakshi Garg

In this study, we aim to compare the blood glucose control, dietary habits, glycemic load, socio-demographic & lifestyle habits, and anthropometric indices among type 2 diabetics that are consuming oral antidiabetic drug alone versus oral antidiabetic drug with home remedies. A cross-sectional study was undertaken on 300 patients attending OPDs of the Department of Medicine, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, India, and Goretti Hospital Kallianpura, Udupi, India. The data were subjected to statistical analysis with the SPSS 16 software and dietary analysis was performed with the DietCal software. Out of 300 samples, 127 (42.3%) consumed the antidiabetic drug along with home remedies while 173 (57.7%) participants consumed the antidiabetic drug alone without home remedies. There was no significant difference in glycemic parameters like FBS (0.577NS), PPBS (0.179 NS), HbA1C (0.413NS), and there is no significant difference in the mean glycemic load of the diet between participants of the 2 groups (0.653NS). Dietary habits, socio-demographics, lifestyle habits, and anthropometric indices among the 2 groups do not show a significant difference. Our study revealed the poor control of diet in both groups. Home remedies can give an added benefit if diet and lifestyle modification are followed. Diet and lifestyle modification are very important for glycemic control to prevent long-term complications.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Igbokwe Mariagoretti Chikodili, Ibe Ifeoma Chioma, Ilechukwu Augusta Ukamaka, Oju Theclar Nnenna, Okoye Delphine Ogechukwu, Ernest Eze Mmesoma, Ekeomodi Christabel Chikodi, Ejiofor InnocentMary IfedibaluChukwu

The prevalence of Diabetes mellitus (DM) is continuously rising worldwide. Among its types, type I is characterized by the destruction of beta cells triggered by various mechanisms, including the activation of Caspase 3. Studies have demonstrated the crucial role of Caspase 3 in initiating the apoptosis of beta cells in DM. Our research aims to identify possible phytocompounds inhibitors of Caspase 3 using computational approach. We obtained 3D structures of Caspase 3 and 6511 phytocompounds from the Protein Data Bank and the African Natural Products Database, respectively. The phytocompounds were assessed for druglikeness properties, topological polar surface area, and preliminary toxicity using DataWarrior. The phytocompounds were subjected to molecular docking simulation (MDS) at Caspase 3 active site using AutoDock-Vina. The frontrunner phytocompounds obtained from the MDS were subjected to protease inhibition prediction on Molinspiration. The pharmacokinetics of the phytocompounds were assessed on SwissADME. The in-depth computational toxicity profile of the phytocompounds was evaluated on the pkCSM web. The binding interactions of the phytocompounds with Caspase 3 were assessed with Discovery Studio Visualizer and Maestro. Seventeen phytocompounds were found to have no violation of Lipinski's rule and had no toxicity based on the preliminary assessment, have better binding affinity and protease inhibitory prediction scores than the references, have optimistic bioactivity radar prediction and similar amino acids interaction, in comparison with the references. Further studies, which include in-vitro and in-vivo studies, will be carried out to validate the results of this study.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Mohammadreza Saeed, Anoosh Eghdami

Helicobacter pylori is a significant risk factor for chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and gastric cancer. The purpose of this article is to investigate the potential impact of fifty herbal compounds derived from Ginger and Parsley plants, known for their antibacterial properties on the Oxygen-insensitive NADPH nitro reductase enzyme of metronidazole-resistant H. pylori. In the present study, the information on the structure of compounds, the H. pylori resistant to metronidazole enzyme, myristicin, and shogaol derivatives were obtained from databases such as ZINC15, RCSB (Protein Data Bank), and PubChem, respectively. Finally, molecular docking was performed with iGemdock2.1 and Molegro Virtual Docker. After molecular docking, four out of the fifty phytocompounds showed the lowest energy and the highest number of interactions with the amino acids at the binding sites. Among these four phytocompounds, the best phytocompound was N-Vanillyloctanamide derived from Ginger. Our molecular docking study suggests that ginger can be introduced as a potential candidate to inhibit the growth of H. pylori.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Shouvik Kumar Nandy, Shikha Thakur

Asthma is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the airways. The airway epithelium produces bioactive cellular mediators that trigger the chronic inflammatory response. These mediators then attract and activate inflammatory cells in the airways of the lungs and release more biochemical mediators. With several benefits, such as a significant reduction in the cost and time of drug discovery as well as the use of laboratory animals, in silico studies have grown to be an important and simple method for examining various chemical compounds against various targets. One of the common herbs found in the local Himalayan area is Brugmansia sauveolens, known as Datura, which is a source of tropane alkaloids and asthma can be effectively managed with alkaloids. Using a Soxhlet extractor, the collected plant components were first extracted with petroleum ether (to remove fats) followed by methanol. Online technologies like PASS Online, Molinspiration, SEA, SWISS, and SLAP data were used for a variety of in silico predictions. After that, we tested the ability of Brugmansia extracts to reduce inflammation using an in vitro approach. Rat RBC membrane lyses were stabilized using the plant extract fractions. The outcomes were also compared with aspirin (a common anti-inflammatory drug). Bioinformatics techniques were used to detect structural activity. After investigating all the data It was shown that B. sauveolens had anti-asthmatic activity.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Akinlade Mary Ololade, Fredrick Chinedu Anowi, Ajaghaku Amara Anwuchaepe, Ejiofor InnocentMary IfedibaluChukwu

Picralima nitida the only species in the genus Picralima belongs to the Apocyanaceae family. It is widely known for its medicinal purposes. The aim of the study was to investigate pharmacognostic parameters of the leaf and evaluate the hepatoprotective activity against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity using Swiss Albino mice. The physicochemical evaluation indicated 11.75% moisture content, 8.50% total ash, 9.50% acid insoluble ash, 4.00% water soluble ash, 13.75% alcohol extractive value and 11.00% water extractive value. Macroscopic analysis on the fresh leaves revealed an odourless green plant with bitter taste. Microscopic examination indicated the presence of calcium oxalate crystals, starch grains, epidermal cells, xylem, parenchyma cells, paracytic stomata and palisade tissue. Chemomicroscopic evaluation indicated the presence of oxalate crystals, starch grains, lignified tissues, tannins, cellulose, protein and oil. The acute toxicity result revealed that P. nitida had no adverse effect in Swiss Albino mice. The ethyl acetate fraction had hepatoprotective ability on liver enzymes (alanine transaminase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase) and can produce the same result as ascorbic acid (standard).

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Shuby Kumari, Sheikh Rezzak Ali, Obaidur Rahman, Amit Kumar, Hans Raj Bhat, Surajit Kumar Ghosh, Anshul Shakya

Among all cereals, oat is considered to be one of the goods consumed in functional grain, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical components. The review article aims to explore plant profile, phytochemical constituents present in different parts, and potential therapeutic agent which prevents people from different diseases with their respective mechanism of action it also includes toxicity studies, dosage form, marketed formulation, and industrial application. The information on Avena sativa is collected from the different databases available in Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to search for research papers for literature and data. Reviewed information suggests that the A. Sativa is a good source of a range of phytochemicals including lignans, saponin, anthocyanidins, and avenanthramides, which might be directly and/or indirectly linked with beneficial nutraceutical and/or pharmacological effect (s). The review states, that A. sativa is a promising candidate as a functional and/or non-functional food because of various phytoconstituents. The clinical report has described that the utilization of oats can provide several health benefits. However, systematic rational investigations for such indications and safety profiles are yet to be explored.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Nayana Bhuyan, Shatabdi Ghose, Smitashikha Bhattacharya, Tapash Chakraborty

Exposure to zero gravity causes many physiological changes which may result to affect the health of people involved in space travel. The current review summarizes current knowledge on the start and progression of space motion sickness, bone loss, muscle loss, cardiovascular disorders, respiratory problems, and neuronal and hormonal problems. Around 70% of astronauts suffer from space adaption syndrome, fluid changes, and head motions. It has also been suggested that otolith asymmetries and Coriolis cross-coupling stimulation are the main causes of space motion sickness. The findings reveal that space flight directly affects the body's normal functioning. Despite an intense training routine, a study of historical data from piloted flights discovered that slow degradation of bone and muscle tissue, along with fluid losses, can eventually lead to kidney stones, musculoskeletal problems, bone fractures, and even problems with other organs of the body. Due to such problems focus is given to curing these problems associated with space travel. Medicines that are used in space and medicinal plants like Spirulina, and Ginseng that are of use for the treatment of these problems associated with space travel are discussed along with the treatment options available for such problems in space and the cautions that must be followed. Also, the herbal medication that can be used in outer space is taken into account. The findings of this study state the necessary precaution that needs to be taken by astronauts in outer space and also provides information for future research to be done on solving these problems.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Tanmay Sanjay Kamble, Kshitij Suhas Shirke, Kiran Babu Uppar, Sonal Balasaheb Bangar, Namrata Santosh Naware, Shreya Sakharam Ambatkar, Mukesh Patil, Ashish Jain

Syzygium cumini, also known as Jamun, Jambul, or Indian blackberry, is a species of tree native to the Indian subcontinent. A comprehensive literature review shows that Jamun can be considered one of the most versatile herbal medicines with antidiabetic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and other properties. This review aims to investigate and understand the previous research on Jamun, including its pharmacognosy and pharmacological history, to confirm its potential to treat a variety of illnesses. The study also examined the current pharmaceutical formulations available in the market to understand the potential for developing medications from the components of Jamun. To comprehend the available studies, the analytical backdrop is also reviewed. Despite being the focus of many research studies, there are still many unanswered questions regarding Jamun. Therefore, the best formulations or products may be produced in these sectors, possibly through nutraceuticals, to support improved pharmacological aspects or health promotion. This review will help identify unexplored areas where specific tasks related to Jamun can be done.

Sciences of Phytochemistry

Siuli Sen, Malita Sarma Borthakur, Dipak Chetia

Herbal cosmetics are formulated using different cosmetic ingredients to form the base in which one or more herbal ingredients are used to cure various skin ailments. The name suggests that herbal cosmetics are natural and free from all the harmful synthetic chemicals that otherwise may be toxic to the skin. Compared to other beauty products, natural cosmetics are safe to use. Cosmeceuticals are cosmetic-pharmaceutical hybrid products intended to improve the health and beauty of the skin by providing a specific result. There are numerous herbs available naturally that have different uses in cosmetic preparations for skincare, hair care, and as antioxidants. The current study included a review and authentication of the various aspects of the plant Lawsonia inermis. L. inermis, commonly known as henna, has been cultivated for thousands of years for its leaves, which contain a natural dye molecule called lawsone that is commonly used to dye hair, skin, and fabrics. Henna has a long history of use in traditional medicine, where it has been used to treat a variety of ailments. In addition to its medicinal and cosmetic uses, henna has cultural and religious significance in many parts of the world and is commonly used to decorate the skin for weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. Because of these  properties, the L. inermis plant can be used as a medicine against a wide range of pathogenic organisms and diseases. This review covers the phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and traditional uses of the plant.

Sciences of Phytochemistry