Traditional and Integrative Medicine

Avicenna Viewpoint about Isomorphic Lesions or Koebner Phenomenon in Vitiligo

Shabnam Khatami — 2024-09-25

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The Frequency of Medicinal Plant Usage during Pregnancy and possible Related Factors; A Cross-Sectional Study from Tehran, Iran

Azadeh Shabani — 2024-09-25

Taking medicinal plants during pregnancy may be associated with geographical, socioeconomic, cultural, and individual factors. The present study was conducted to evaluate the frequency of medicinal plant usage and its influencing factors among pregnant mothers living in Tehran, Iran. A cross-sectional study was conducted (Tehran, Iran; 2019-2020). All pregnant women who attended the prenatal clinic were invited. A written consent was obtained from all subjects before enrolment. Data regarding medicinal plant consumption, the reasons for usage, the cause of preference, the source of advice, and the preparation route were gathered through an interview and the completion of a questionnaire. The recorded data were analyzed to assess the prevalence, indications, and factors influencing medicinal plant usage during pregnancy. Of 326 pregnant women, 105 (32.2%) used at least one, and 221 (67.8%) used no medicinal plant. The most consumed medicinal plant was ginger, followed by peppermint, thyme, frankincense, chicory, and saffron. The main reasons for usage were digestive disease and cold symptoms. The place of receiving prenatal care was the only significant factor affecting herbal medicine consumption (p=0.01). More analyses showed a relatively significant correlation between the participant’s age and medicinal plants usage (p=0.05). The results also showed that belief in low adverse effects and high effectiveness of medicinal plants were the reasons for preference of herbal medicine usage. Furthermore, 37 subjects (35.0%) informed by their family or friends, and 15 (14.3%) consumed medicinal plants on their data. Plants were mainly provided by herbal stores. The results showed a relatively frequent use of medicinal plants. The plants were mostly recommended by families and friends. Future studies with larger sample sizes are suggested to determine possible teratogenicity and safe doses.

A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Thai Facial Massage, Chinese Eye Exercise of Acupoints and Standard Treatment in Patients with Dry Eye Disorders

Pavasut Leedasawat — 2024-09-28

Dry eye disorder (DED) is a chronic medical condition that requires ongoing treatment, with increasing prevalence worldwide. Traditional Thai eye exercises (TFM) and Chinese eye exercises of acupoints (CEA) are believed to improve ocular health. The objective of this study is to examine the efficacy and potential adverse effects of TFM and CEA in treating DED compared to standard treatment of lid hygiene (STD). In this 12-week single-blind randomized controlled trial, 84 participants aged 20-60 years with mild to moderate DED were recruited from Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand. They were equally divided into three groups: TFM, CEA, and STD (28 participants each). The participants were trained to self-administer treatments at home. The primary outcomes were OSDI scores, SIT, TBUT, and CSS, while the secondary outcomes were ocular tests, including VA and Likert scale, to measure DED-related symptoms. One-way ANOVA and repeated measures (ANOVA) were used to compare results between groups and study visits, respectively; p-values <0.05 were considered statically significant. The post-treatment results showed a gradual improvement of OSDI (p value <0.001), TBUT (p value <0.01), and SIT (p value <0.01) in all groups. CSS improved significantly only in CEA groups (p value <0.05). No significant differences were found between the study groups, except for SIT in week 4 and week 12 when there was a greater reduction of SIT in CEA compared to TFM and STD groups (p < 0.05). No adverse event was observed in all study groups throughout the intervention program. TFM and CEA could be effectively used as alternative treatments for STD without any negative side effects.

Unveiling Antiarthritic Potential of Moringa oleifera Lam. Extract: Evaluation and Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose-Based Formulation

Minakshi Pandey — 2024-09-28

Medicinal plants consist of complex chemical compounds that have been acknowledged for their important role in treating persistent human illnesses. This research concentrates on the phyto-physicochemical evaluation of Moringa oleifera Lam. extract and its in vitro anti-arthritic properties, as determined by inhibiting protein denaturation utilizing varying concentrations of the extract and a standard drug, diclofenac sodium. The study's results revealed a significant in vitro anti-arthritic impact of the extract, with an 85.8% inhibition compared to the standard drug's 99.9% inhibition. Furthermore, this research involved creating sustained-release tablets using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)-based formulations and various grades of hydrophilic polymers along with a fixed quantity of a hydrophobic polymer. The manufactured tablets demonstrated favourable sustained-release traits through direct compression, with the MF2 formulation showing a 73.8% cumulative release over 10 hours.

The Virtual Course of Persian and Complementary Medicine of Smart University of Medical Sciences from the Students' Point of View: An Online Survey Study

Amin Habibi — 2024-09-28

Persian medicine is an ancient medical school that prioritizes preserving health over treatment. It is a holistic approach that considers genetics, lifestyle, and other factors to find the root cause of a disease. This study investigated the virtual course of Persian and complementary medicine from the perspective of students. We conducted a cross-sectional study. A standard questionnaire was used to collect data from 750 participants. The tool's validity was confirmed based on its content validity, and Cronbach's alpha coefficient was used to estimate the internal consistency of this questionnaire. The questionnaire measured the effectiveness of the virtual education system in various dimensions, and the participants completed it electronically at the end of the course. SPSS 26.0 was used to analyze the collected data. The study used frequency, percentage, and mean to describe data and a desirability score was calculated for each question to evaluate course quality from participants' perspective. The results of the one-sample t-test indicate that the sample mean (57.111) is higher than the population mean (90) (p < 0.01). Based on the independent samples t-test, the mean attitude score of female students towards course is higher than that of male students (p > 0.05). The ANOVA analysis results regarding the mean attitude scores of students towards the course based on their field of study show that the mean attitude scores vary across different fields of study (p < 0.05). The result of present study emphasizes the importance of developing education in Persian medicine in universities to meet the clinical needs of the community and improve health and well-being. This can also promote the status of Persian medicine globally.

Effect of Advanced Yogasanas on Psycho-Biochemical Parameters in Adults: A Prospective Non-Randomized Single Arm Trial

Chanchal Vijay — 2024-09-28

In the research investigation exploring the effects of Advanced Yogasanas on psycho-biochemical parameters, a cohort of 67 adult yoga practitioners, spanning ages 20 to 54 (with a mean age of 28.94±6.95), actively engaged in an extensive one-month training program facilitated by certified yoga instructors. The sessions were conducted during evening hours, specifically from 4 to 7 pm, ensuring a consistent and structured learning environment. To evaluate the psychological impact, participants underwent assessments employing The Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS) for Attention and the Self-Efficacy Scale for Self-efficacy. The outcomes revealed remarkable improvements in Attention scores (p<0.01**) and Self-efficacy scores (p<0.01**), highlighting the positive influence of advanced yogasanas on these crucial psychological parameters. Turning to the realm of biochemical parameters, the gathered data indicated non-significant alterations in total cholesterol (md=1.65); while there was a notable decrease in triglycerides (md=0.917). Additionally, high-density lipoprotein exhibited an increase (md=1.636), accompanied by reductions in both low-density lipoprotein (md=0.858) and very low-density lipoprotein (md=0.358) between the pre- and post-assessment periods. These findings collectively underscore the beneficial impact of a one-month regimen of yogasanas on a spectrum of psychological and biochemical parameters. By emphasizing the holistic advantages, the study advocates for the integration of advanced yogasanas practice, into the daily routines of adults, showcasing the potential for a comprehensive approach to well-being through the incorporation of these advanced yoga practices.

Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used by Local Population of Ilam City on Back Pain, West of Iran

Damoun Razmjoue — 2024-09-28

The diverse geographical regions of Iran have tribes with different cultures and customs in the medicinal use of plants in the control, prevention and treatment of diseases, and on this basis, to collect valuable ethnobotanical information in the field of medicinal plants, more studies are needed among different tribes. It is so that in the event of the death of people with this knowledge, their historical and experimental knowledge will not be forgotten. In this ethnobotanical and systematic study in the city of Ilam (western Iran), an attempt has been made to identify and report the use of medicinal plants native to this region in the treatment of back pain. Traditional therapeutic information about medicinal plants effective on back pain is done by ethnobotanical questionnaire. The complete list of herbal druggists in Ilam city was obtained from the Food and Drugs deputy, and the interviewer collected the required information personally by visiting each and every herbal druggists in Ilam city. The questionnaire included personal information and the names of native plants, the organ used, the method of use, and the effect of traditional treatment for back pain. Data analysis shows that 16 medicinal plants from 15 plant families are used in the treatment of back pain in Ilam. Medicinal plants Pistacia khinjuk, Amygdalus communis, Achillea biebersteinii, Amygdalus arabica, Pistacia atlantica, Thymbra spicata, Capsicum annuum, Biebersteinia multifida, Nigella sativa, Salvia rosmarinus, Hypericum helianthemoides, Calendula persica, Citrullus colocynthis, Zingiber officinale, Elaeagnus angustifolia, Nerium oleander, Myrtus communis and Ricinus communis are medicinal plants that are used in Ilam city to treat back pain. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the medicinal plant Achillea biebersteinii with usage report index (UR) of 14, relative frequency of citation (RFC) of 0.73 and percentage of frequency of use (PFU) of 53.8% is the most used in the treatment of back pain. Asteraceae plant family is the most used plant family. Leaf with 37% was the most used organ and decoction with 35% was the most traditional way of use. The presence of rich plant flora and medicinal species in Ilam city provides a suitable field for pharmacological research for better use and production of medicines and herbal products against back pain.

Formulation, Standardization, and Characterization of a Novel Herbal Medicine Tablet Containing Rosehip Extract

Zahra Ayati — 2024-09-28

The fruit of Rosa canina L., commonly known as rosehip, has a long history of use in treating various disorders such as osteoarthritis and cardiovascular diseases. However, like many other herbal extracts, rosehip dried extract presents challenges due to its hygroscopic and sticky properties. This poses difficulties in developing solid pharmaceutical dosage forms utilizing rosehip extract. Hence, the objective of this study was to formulate and standardize a tablet containing rosehip extract. To achieve this goal, a novel wet granulation method was employed in this study to develop a tablet formulation of rosehip extract. This method utilized rosehip concentrated extract as a granulation liquid, and double granulation was employed to optimize the content of the extract. Various formulations were systematically evaluated to determine the optimal composition and ratio of excipients. Subsequently, the final formulations underwent rigorous assessment of their physicochemical properties and stability. Rosehip extract and its tablets were standardized based on ascorbic acid and total polyphenol content, using HPLC and Folin-Ciocalteu methods accordingly. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report the double-wet-granulation method in a tablet formulation design along with an examination of its impact on the total polyphenol content of the extract. The key advantage of employing this method lies in its capability to incorporate liquid extract into a solid formulation, thereby facilitating the accommodation of escalating dosages of extract in each tablet. However, it is important to note that this method does come with certain limitations. Primarily, the extended formulation process necessitates prolonged exposure of active ingredients to heat and oxygen, which may potentially affect their stability and efficacy.

A Review on Galactogogic Properties of India's Rich Tradition of Medicinal Herbs and Spices for Lactation

Aastha Pahuja — 2024-09-28

Throughout history, herbalists and traditional healers have wielded the power of plant-based remedies, an ancient practice now embraced by modern science. Delving into the therapeutic properties of conventional herbs and spices is a recent pursuit. Galactogogues, compounds known for their ability to heighten prolactin levels by modulating dopamine receptors, stand as agents amplifying milk production—a vital function for lactation. This study endeavors to meticulously explore medicinal spices and herbs recognized for their remarkable capacity to augment breast milk production. Methodologically, information pertaining to medicinal herbs and spices recognized for promoting lactation was extracted from reputable literature. A meticulous exploration across multiple academic databases, encompassing PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, was undertaken to authenticate the impacts of these medicinal plants on lactation, considering their identified pharmacological properties. The findings underscored the potency of Trigonella foenum-graecum L., Asparagus racemosus W., Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Moringa oleifera L., Cuminum cyminum L., and Trachyspermum ammi L., contribute to increased lactation. They achieve this through mechanisms such as phytoestrogenic effects, vasodilation, stimulation of mammary growth, and facilitation of breast milk production. In conclusion, the fusion of traditional wisdom with contemporary scientific inquiry offers a promising avenue for discovering potent phyto pharmaceuticals that effectively boost breast milk production. Leveraging this amalgamation may yield impactful advancements in maternal health and lactation support.

Unveiling the Metabolic Effects of Ganoderma lucidum in Humans: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Steven Alvianto — 2024-09-29

Ganoderma is a mushroom renowned for its medical attributes, encompassing hepatoprotective, hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and immunomodulatory activities. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Ganoderma lucidum supplementation on metabolic profile in adult populations. Articles were retrieved from MEDLINE, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Google Scholar databases until the year 2023. Inclusion criteria were all published trials examining the effect of G. lucidum supplementation on metabolic profile in adult populations. The quality assessment and meta-analysis was performed. A total of 13 studies (two in populations with metabolic syndrome, two in type 2 diabetes mellitus, one in fibromyalgia patients, six in healthy populations, and two patients with coronary arterial disease) were included in this study, and seven studies met the eligibility criteria for meta-analysis. G. lucidum was mostly administered as capsules. There were no significant differences among outcomes in between group comparisons of high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, total cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose in the metabolic syndrome population (p value=1.00, 0.90, 0.78, and 0.33, respectively). Within group comparisons among the healthy population, only serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (p=0.03) and total cholesterol (p<0.0001) exhibited significant changes. In conclusion, we observed significant reductions in serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase and total cholesterol levels among healthy individuals following G. lucidum supplementation. However, despite promising preliminary findings, greater sample numbers with a more diverse demographic studies are required to fully understand and uncover any capabilities of G. lucidum in a therapeutic role.

An Overview of Applications of Medical Barley Water in Gastrointestinal Disorders from the Viewpoint of Avicenna

Farzaneh Zare — 2024-09-29

Gastrointestinal disorders are one of the most common conditions among people in many societies. On the other hand, evidence shows that the prevalence of usage of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has increased in recent years to treat many chronic and acute conditions, which might be due to testimonies of the safety, effectiveness, and affordability of CAM. In Persian medicine (PM), medical barley water (MBW) has been known as a helpful remedy for treating some digestive illnesses. This study aimed to review the properties of MBW in Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. So, Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine was reviewed with keywords related to this remedy. Furthermore, various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and SID, were searched with the keywords “barley water," “non-alcoholic beer," and “alcohol-free beer." This study showed that Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine recommends MBW for the treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders. Avicenna prescribed barley water for the treatment of bowel obstruction disease, bowel mass, intestinal ulcers, and jaundice. Oral consumption of MBW was the most frequently used method for disease improvement. Meanwhile, recent studies have also shown the therapeutic effects of non-alcoholic beer in the treatment of various disorders, such as gastrointestinal inflammatory disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, possibly due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Given the high importance of MBW in Avicenna’s Canon of Medicine, the results of this review and recent clinical studies can introduce MBW as an effective and less harmful gastrointestinal drug. We suggest conducting further clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of MBW in managing gastrointestinal conditions.

Lifestyle Modification in Respiratory Tract Inflammation: Persian Medicine Perspective

Hanieh Tahermohammadi — 2024-09-29

Excessive inflammation in the respiratory system could lead to life-threatening conditions. This situation is usually caused by irritants, allergens, pathogens, toxins, and pollutants, leading to airway inflammation. On the other hand, an inappropriate lifestyle can cause inflammation in different parts of the body including the respiratory tract. This study aimed to explore the recommended lifestyle modification for respiratory tract inflammation from the Persian medicine viewpoint in light of current evidence. In this review, first, we looked for lifestyle factors effective on the respiratory tract in Persian medicine sources. Then, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched to find evidence about the mentioned factors, using the following keywords: psychological stress, sleep, food, exercise, gut, constipation, cold, and airway or respiratory tract. In line with Persian medicine, current literature confirms that psychological stress, intensive physical activity, allergic foods, and cold ambient trigger the beginning of the inflammation process in the respiratory system. It could happen through different pathways such as downregulation of Th1 cytokines expression, cold-inducible RNA binding protein (CIRP) synthesizing, mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) overexpression, activating transient receptor potential melastatin 8 (TRPM8) channels, inducing a neutrophilic type of inflammation and damaging the airway epithelium. Mild exercise, well-being of the gut microbiota status, and reduction of sleep duration have beneficial effects on the regression of inflammation. Lifestyle modification could play an important role in the prevention and treatment of respiratory tract inflammation. Future clinical investigations should be conducted to evaluate their effects.