Article

Cyto-protective and immunomodulating properties of Amla (Emblica officinalis) on lymphocytes: An in-vitro study

Authors:
To read the full-text of this research, you can request a copy directly from the authors.

Abstract

The fruits extracts of Emblica officinalis (Amla) has been reported to have strong anti-oxidant properties. There is a paucity of studies on the immunomodulatory properties of fruit extracts of Amla in immuno-compromised states, with the emphasis on lymphocytes. Therefore, the aim of the study was to determine the anti-oxidant and immunomodulatory properties of Amla using chromium (VI) as an immunosuppressive agent. Chromium (Cr) treatment results in enhanced cytotoxicity, free radical production, lipid peroxidation and decreased glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and diminished glutathione (GSH) levels. There was a significant inhibition of both lipopolysaccharide and concanavalin-A-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation. Chromium also inhibited Con A stimulated interleukin-2 and gamma-interferon production significantly. Further, there was enhanced apoptosis and DNA fragmentation in the presence of Cr. Amla significantly inhibited Cr-induced free radical production and restored the anti-oxidant status back to control level. Amla also inhibited apoptosis and DNA fragmentation induced by Cr. Interestingly, Amla relieved the immunosuppressive effects of Cr on lymphocyte proliferation and even restored the IL-2 and gamma-IFN production considerably.

No full-text available

Request Full-text Paper PDF

To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the authors.

... The research drug has been selected from one of the most distinguished and most often studied treatises on Indian medicine Susruta Samhita of Susrutacharya during 6th century BCE, which is having the combination of four ingredients in equal amounts-fruits of Phyllanthus emblica L., Terminalia chebula Retz., Piper longum L., and root of Plumbago zeylanica L., and used in various gastrointestinal disorders [11] . Phyllanthus emblica is rich in ascorbic acid, gallic acid, chebulinic acid, chebulagic acid, ellagic acid, 3-ethylgallic acid, corilagin [12] , etc. and possesses cytoprotective [13] , immunomodulating [13] , hepatoprotective [14][15][16] effects. Terminalia chebula mainly consists of tannins (20-40%), which produce chebulic acid, D-galloyl glucose during hydrolysis [17] . ...
... The research drug has been selected from one of the most distinguished and most often studied treatises on Indian medicine Susruta Samhita of Susrutacharya during 6th century BCE, which is having the combination of four ingredients in equal amounts-fruits of Phyllanthus emblica L., Terminalia chebula Retz., Piper longum L., and root of Plumbago zeylanica L., and used in various gastrointestinal disorders [11] . Phyllanthus emblica is rich in ascorbic acid, gallic acid, chebulinic acid, chebulagic acid, ellagic acid, 3-ethylgallic acid, corilagin [12] , etc. and possesses cytoprotective [13] , immunomodulating [13] , hepatoprotective [14][15][16] effects. Terminalia chebula mainly consists of tannins (20-40%), which produce chebulic acid, D-galloyl glucose during hydrolysis [17] . ...
... These findings may not only advance our knowledge of potential mechanisms behind this hepatoprotective activity of the research drug but also help in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the benefit of suffering people with liver diseases. Phenols, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, etc. are only a few of the components of Amalakyadi Gana that have been identified and many of them are reported for hepatoprotective effects [12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23] . According to some evidence, Amalakyadi Gana helps enhance the liver's normal functioning. ...
Article
Since ancient times, Amalakyadi Gana, a polyherbal formulation of Susruta Samhita (6th century BCE), has been used for the prevention and treatment of numerous gastrointestinal diseases. This formulation consists of fruits of Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia chebula, Piper longum, and the root of Plumbago zeylanica. The hepatoprotective efficacy of this formulation was evaluated following the acute toxicity study in mice to validate its ayurvedic uses. The hepatoprotective efficacy was assessed using paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. Research drug exhibited in normalizing the PCM-dependent rise of serum liver function markers. After administration of the aqueous extract of Amalakyadi Gana, relevant blood biochemical measures showed significant (P < 0.05) hepatoprotective activity in a dosage-dependent manner, especially at the dose of 700 mg/kg orally in mice. When compared to the control group, significant (p < 0.05) histological alterations were also observed in the liver tissues. This formulation exhibited results in normalizing the liver architecture by decreasing necrotic foci along with the normal liver parenchymal structure in the research drug pre-treated groups mainly at the dose of 700 mg/kg, caused due to paracetamol toxicity. The research drug's sustained activity was comparable to that of the silymarin (200 mg/kg, p.o.) reference medicine. This formulation possesses significant hepatoprotective activity without any toxicity in mice.
... Another reason for variability in the results may be attributed to Hawthorne effect. T. cordifolia was previously used systemically in a study by Ram S M, et al. [13], where in it was proved to have anti-bacterial and antifungal properties. Also, it was proved to have properties common in amalaki (amla), which is fortified with Vitamin C, a natural, abundantly available powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory. ...
... Also, it was proved to have properties common in amalaki (amla), which is fortified with Vitamin C, a natural, abundantly available powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory. This could be one of the reason for it being affective in reducing gingival and bleeding scores [13]. Many studies used the 3-day de novo plaque accumulation and non-brushing model to evaluate the effect of various mouthwashes. ...
Article
Background: Plaque control has been the key factor in maintenance of oral hygiene. Chlorhexidine (CHX) is considered as gold standard in the treatment of gingivitis, however side effects such as staining of teeth and altered taste sensation, limits its use for longer periods. Ayurvedic drugs, on the other hand, have been proved to be safer for long term usage. Tinospora cardiofolia (T. cardiofolia) also called as guduchi is known to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Aim: To evaluate the efficacy of Tinospora cardiofolia (T. cordiofolia) in the treatment of gingivitis and to compare its efficacy with the gold standard chlorhexidine. Materials and Methods: 30 systemically healthy patients with MGI score greater ≥2 were recruited for the study and were randomly assigned into 3 groups; Group A- Herbal mouthrinse: Group B- Placebo: Group C- 0.2% Chlorhexidine. Baseline indices were recorded. Thorough scaling was performed and plaque scores were brought to zero. Patients were instructed to use given mouthrinse 15 ml for 60 sec twice daily. All the indices were repeated at the end of 21 days. Results: Reduction of all indices scores were observed in all the groups at 21st day. Chlorhexidine showed better results when compared to Guduchi.
... Vitamin C in Embilica Officinalis accounts for approximately 45-70% of the antioxidant activity (Scartezzini et al. 2006) [38] . Various investigators have reported that the fruits of E. officinalis have immune-modulatory activity (Rama Rao, 1998;Sairam et al. 2002;Ganju et al. 2003;Srikumar et al. 2007) [33,36,9,43] . The anti inflammatory properties of E. officinalis is also established by numerous workers (Golechha et al. 2014;Yokozawa, 2000, Santosh Kumar et al. 2013 [37] . ...
... Vitamin C in Embilica Officinalis accounts for approximately 45-70% of the antioxidant activity (Scartezzini et al. 2006) [38] . Various investigators have reported that the fruits of E. officinalis have immune-modulatory activity (Rama Rao, 1998;Sairam et al. 2002;Ganju et al. 2003;Srikumar et al. 2007) [33,36,9,43] . The anti inflammatory properties of E. officinalis is also established by numerous workers (Golechha et al. 2014;Yokozawa, 2000, Santosh Kumar et al. 2013 [37] . ...
Article
Full-text available
Embilica officinalis or Indian gooseberry is perhaps the single most often mentioned herb in "Charak Samhita", the Ayurvedic medicine literature (500 BC). Ayurveda, which is the oldest health system in the world, appreciates and uses amla to treat a host of diseases and promote positive health. Thirty two animals positive for subclinical mastitis were randomly divided into four different groups containing 8 animals each and supplemented with various doses of deseeded fresh amla. Changes in milk yield, fat%, solids not fat, total solids and total bacterial count were studied. Supplementation of amla @ 250 gram and 200 gram increased the milk yield by 14.58% and 14.28%, significantly decreased total bacterial count but did not have any significant changes in fat%, total solids and solid not fat, although an increase in fat was recorded. Supplementation at 150 gram too increased milk yield, decreased total bacterial count but the changes were statistically non significant. In unsupplemented group, an increase in somatic cell count, total bacterial count and decline in milk yield was recorded indicative of development of mastitis. Thus, amla can be used as an alternate to conventional therapy and can be supplemented to cattle in routine feeding especially in areas where it is surplus.
... 20 The ingredients in our test drug exhibit immunomodulator properties by various mechanisms like by inhabiting growth T-lymphocyte, antibody production, inhibiting nitric oxide production and enhancing the expression of angiogenesis cytokines. 21,22,23,24,25 Thus by enhancing immunity helps the body to get rid of the problem. ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction: Scabies, known as Jarb in Unani medicine, is a parasitic infection caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. Hominis. It is characterized by intense itching, particularly noted by patients at night. In India, this disease affects over three million people, manifesting as papular or vesicular eruptions accompanied by pruritus. Unani physicians have developed comprehensive treatments for scabies, considering its causative factors and various types. Methods: This study was conducted as an open-label, single-arm clinical trial involving 75 patients diagnosed with scabies with male female ration of 1:2.7. The primary objective was to assess the efficacy and safety of a compound Unani formulation. The test group received a Compound Unani formulation Irtifal Shahtra (Fumaria indica Pugsley) at a dose of 5 grams twice daily, Marham Kharish Jadeed (Lawsonia inermis) for topical application twice daily, and Aab-e-Barg-e-Neem (a decoction of Neem leaves) for washing the affected areas before applying Marham twice daily, for a duration of 15 days. Both subjective and objective parameters were evaluated before and after the treatment period. Results: In this study, 94% patients reported a significant reduction in itching after using unani formulation for Scabies. Only 5% patients had mild itching at the end of the study. Regarding cure of the lesions, the reduction in mean values from before to after treatment indicates an improvement in skin lesions. P-value less than 0.05 indicate that the results are statistically significant. Objective parameters such as the skin scraping test, demonstrated a significant reduction (p<0.001). Importantly, no adverse effects were observed with the treatment regimen, further highlighting its effectiveness in alleviating scabies symptoms. Conclusion: This study highlights the safe and effective utilization of Unani formulations in treating one of the most distressing skin disease scabies, without any adverse effects. Keywords: Scabies, Jarb, Itrifal shahtra, Barg neem, Marham Kharish Jadeed, Classical Pharmacopoeial formulations.
... The main flavonoids being Gallic acid, Ellagic acid and Kaempferol. The fruit extracts modulate immunity by enhancing interleukin-2, natural killer activity & Gamma interferon production (Sai Ram et al., 2002;Sreeramulu & Raghunath, 2010). ...
Chapter
Full-text available
The active ingredients produced by plants as secondary metabolites have always been in focus because of their multifocal activities on a host body. As far as the immune system is concerned, any imbalance could result in a catastrophic health condition such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disorders and hypersensitivity reactions. Plants have been studied for their immunomodulatory properties and research have suggested a wide range of medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds to bring about their medicinal effects due to immunomodulatory properties. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of phytochemicals such as Quercitin, Mangneferin, Gallic acid etc. have made them one of the best choices for Immunomodulation purposes. In addition, phytochemicals have reportedly shown the balancing activity on Th1 & Th2 type cytokines and the associated reactions of inflammation, allergies, infections and transplantation rejection. However, despite having several preclinical and in vitro studies in support of the narrative, sufficient evidences are required to set up a precedent for the immunomodulatory use of plants and plant-based formulations in the prophylaxis of immune related disorders.
... The main flavonoids being Gallic acid, Ellagic acid and Kaempferol. The fruit extracts modulate immunity by enhancing interleukin-2, natural killer activity & Gamma interferon production (Sai Ram et al., 2002;Sreeramulu & Raghunath, 2010). ...
... As a result, antioxidant properties have been linked to reducing oxidative stress injury after extract treatment. In vitro and in vivo investigations showed that P. emblica has an antioxidant effect by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT) and decreasing MDA levels (Sai Ram et al. 2002).The antioxidant activity of the SRFTT and FRFPE was shown to enhance antioxidant enzyme SOD, CAT activities, and GSH levels in renal tissues, as well as lower MDA levels. Fig. 2 depicts histopathological alterations in the kidneys of rats from various treatment groups. ...
Article
Full-text available
The present study was carried out to evaluate the ameliorating potential of the flavonoid-rich fraction of Phyllanthus emblica (FRFPE) and saponin-rich fraction of Tribulus terrestris (SRFTT) against mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced renal toxicity in rats. Forty-two male SD rats were divided into seven different groups, namely normal control (C1), toxicity control (C2), vehicle control (C3), standard control (C4), Flavonoid rich fraction of Phyllanthus emblica (FRFPE; T1), Saponin rich fraction of Tribulus terrestris (SRFTT; T2) and FRFPE + SRFTT (T3). Serum biochemical markers and oxidative stress indicators were measured. Histopathological examination of kidney sections was also carried out. Our data revealed that BUN and creatinine levels in rats’ serum were significantly higher, whereas serum total protein, albumin, and globulin levels were significantly lower in the toxicity group. HgCl2 administration reduced the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) and an elevated MDA in kidney tissue when compared with the control. The treatment with FRFPE and SRFTT markedly attenuated HgCl2-induced oxidative stress in kidney. Further, oxidative stress-related alteration in biochemical markers was confirmed by histopathological changes in rats of different treatment groups. According to histopathology of the kidney, the treatment of FRFPE and SRFTT considerably reduced the damage produced by HgCl2 in rats. LC-QTOF-MS analysis of FRFPE and SRFTT showed the presence of tannins, triterpenoids, alkaloids, gallic acid, steroid derivatives, quinoline derivatives and flavonoids. According to the findings, the flavonoid-rich fraction of P. emblica and the saponin-rich fraction of T. terrestris showed an antioxidant activity and protected the rat kidney from mercury-induced oxidative damage.
... Amla is one of the important ingredients of Triphala Rasayana and Amalaki Rasayana (Krishnaveni and Mirunalini 2010). The cytoprotective and immunomodulatory activities of aqueous fruit extract (100 mg/mL) of P. emblica in chromium (VI) induced immune-compromised state has been reported (Sai Ram et al. 2002Ram et al. , 2003. The extract significantly inhibited chromium-induced free radical production, apoptosis and DNA fragmentation and relieved the immunosuppressive effect on lymphocyte proliferation and restoration of IL-2 and IFN-γ. ...
Chapter
“Exploring the Potential of Rasayana Herbs in Ayurvedic Medicine for Developing Phytopharmaceuticals” by Krishnakumar and Ijinu, focuses on Rasayana herbs in Ayurvedic medicine and their potential for developing phytopharmaceuticals. It explores the concept of rejuvenation and highlights the medicinal properties of these herbs.
... It functions as an antibacterial, rejuvenator, and booster of energy. helps prevent pancreatitis, Positive nitrogen balance is induced, metal toxicity is protected, and increase cellular toxicity based on NK cells and antibodies against the Dalton lymphoma ascites tumor [94,95]. ...
Article
Full-text available
The statement “prevention is better than cure” and its applications is not a new for Ayurvedic health care system. The statement defines the aim and objectives of Ayurvedic health care system in a nutshell “swasthasya swasthya rakshanam aaturasya vikara prashamanam”. The immune system is certainly considered one of our most discreet biological systems withinside the body. Immunizations may be obtained by us actively or passively. Active immunization includes stimulating with an antigen to generate immunological defenses against a destiny exposure, rather than passive vaccination, which includes administering antibodies to someone who has already been exposed to an antigen. Both plant and animal sources produce immunomodulatory effects to boost the body’s immunological reactivity against infections by engaging the non-specific immune system. Herbal immunomodulators are substances that either activate or suppress innate and adaptive immune responses in the body. Different ailments including allergies, asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, and other infectious disorders are caused by immune system failure. Therefore, regulating the many infectious illnesses requires significant immune response modification. Global scientific study is currently focused on how various medicinal plant components might alter the immune system. Numerous Indian and “Rasayana” and medicinal plants may have immunomodulatory characteristics. Some of these plants are Tinospora cordifolia, Morus alba, Acacia catechu, Allium sativum, and Mangifera indica. There are many more that are still undiscovered and offer space for greater study.
... Amla also has an immunomodulatory effect for repeated respiratory infections in humans. The extract acts as an adaptogen and enhances immunity through several mechanisms such as increased activity of interleukin-2 (IL-2), NK (natural killer) cells, Antibody-Dependent Cellular Cytotoxicity (ADCC), and Interferongamma (IFN-γ) production and inhibits apoptosis (Sai Ram et al., 2002;Sreeramulu and Raghunath, 2010;Antiretrovir and Mamidala, 2012). The active ingredients in LH capsules such as quercetin, luteolin oxalin, and kaempferol have effects as immunomodulators by targeting MAPK (Wang et al., 2021a). ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction In recent years, diverse initiatives have been carried out to control the COVID-19 pandemic, ranging from measures restricting social activities to analyzing drugs and vaccines. Studies on herbal medicines are also increasingly conducted in various countries as an adjuvant therapy or supplement. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to investigate the efficacy of herbal medicines analyzed from various countries through clinical trials with the randomized controlled trial method. The outcomes of Length of Stay (LOS), Negative Conversion Time (NCT), and Negative Conversion Rate (NCR) were the main focus. Methods An extensive review of literature spanning from 2019 to 2023 was carried out using well-known databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane. The search included relevant keywords such as “randomized controlled trial,” “COVID-19,” and “herbal medicine.” Results A total of 8 articles were part of the inclusion criteria with outcomes of LOS, NCT, and NCR. In terms of LOS outcomes, all types of herbal medicines showed significant results, such as Persian Medicine Herbal (PM Herbal), Persian Barley Water (PBW), Jingyin Granules (JY granules), Reduning Injection, and Phyllanthus emblica (Amla). However, only JY granules showed significant results in NCR outcome, while JY granules and Reduning Injection showed significant results in reducing NCT. Conclusion These findings enrich our understanding of the potential benefits of herbal medicines in influencing LOS, NCR and NCT parameters in COVID-19 patients. Herbal medicines worked to treat COVID-19 through antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory mechanisms.
... Furthermore, IgM for bucks fed basal diet supplied with 0.5% AFP significantly improved compared with the other treated groups. Regarding the positive effect of AFP on immunity parameters,Sai Ram et al., (2002) reported that AFP improves spleen weight, which plays a vital role in producing antibodies and phagocytes. Also, Mandal et al., ( 2017) reported that AFP at 0.2% in a broiler diet was beneficial to improving the cell-mediated immune response. ...
Article
Full-text available
This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary addition of amla fruits powder (AFP) on blood hematology, serum biochemical parameters, semen quality, fertility and antioxidant status of V-line rabbit bucks during 21-42 weeks of age. A total number of twenty-eight male V-Line rabbits at 21 weeks of age were randomly distributed into four homogeneous groups of seven replicates with one rabbits per each (7 bucks/group). The first group was fed a basal diet without any additives and assigned as a control group. While, the second, third, and fourth groups were fed a basal diet enhanced with varying levels of AFP: 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0%, respectively. Results indicated that bucks fed basal diet supplemented with 0.5 and 1.0% AFP had a significant improvement in red blood cells, hemoglobin, lymphocytes, phagocytic index, immunoglobin type G, serum lipid profile, blood urea, and alanine transaminase compared with those for the rest groups. Reaction time, ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, total sperm output, total litter size at birth, and litter size at weaning for bucks fed a basal diet with different levels of AFP were significantly enhanced compared with the control group.Moreover, bucks fed basic diet with 0.5 and 1.0% AFP showed a significant increase in advanced motility and serum testosterone compared with other groups. The fertility rate for groups supplied with 0.5 and 1.0% AFP was numerically improved compared with the control or group fortified with 0.25% AFP. In addition, antioxidant parameters of blood serum or seminal plasma for rabbit bucks fed a basal diet with 0.5 and 1.0% AFP were substantially increased compared with either group treated with 0.25% AFP or the control. In conclusion, AFP has a beneficial effect on hematology, immunity, lipid profile, semen quality, fertility rate, testosterone hormone and antioxidant status of
... It relieved the immunosuppressive effect of chromium on lymphocyte proliferation, and even restored the IL-2 and gamma-IFN production. [29] Anti-diabetic activity ...
Article
Full-text available
Juvenile diabetes is one of the most common autoimmune diseases of childhood and, nowadays, is increasing an alarming rate. Type 1 diabetes mellitus (Juvenile diabetes) is an immune-mediated, insulin-dependent condition with unknown etiology. Considerable efforts have been made for the development of oral insulin for better patient compliance. However, such options are not yet available in the market and insulin remains the mainstay of treatment of type 1 diabetes. There is no exact reference found in Ayurveda text, but it can be correlated with Sahaja or Jataja prameha (~genetic or hereditary) of Asadhya (difficult to cure or non-curable) type.
... The fruits also contain glucose, fibres, phosphorus, iron and calcium [25] . The fruit is highly beneficial as cytoprotective [26] , hepatoprotective [27] , radioprotective [28] , gastroprotective [29] and antitussive agent [30] . It is used to treat ophthalmic disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, scurvy, tumour, and ulcer [31] and protects against hyperthyroidism [32] , cataract [33] , ischemic reperfusion induced oxidative stress [34] , atherosclerosis and hyperlipidaemia [35] . ...
Article
Full-text available
Plant extracts and Ayurvedic polyherbal mixtures have been used to treat a variety of diseases since time immemorial. Studies on the therapeutic effects of these extracts in the treatment of various disorders are also extensively established. The synergistic effect of polyherbal medications in repairing and revitalizing the immune system is also highlighted in Ayurvedic classics. Argyreia speciosa Linn. (Elephant Creeper, Vidhara in Sanskrit; Family: Convolvulaceae) and Emblica officinalis Gaertn (Indian gooseberry, Amalaki in Sanskrit; Family: Phyllanthaceae) are important drugs explained in Ayurvedic literatures and Nighantus for their Rasayana and Bala-vardhaka properties (immunomodulatory actions). They also possess the restorative and rejuvenating powers as they act on the immune system and positively affect the response of the body towards disease causing pathogens. In this review a comprehensive account of the pharmacological activities along with the immunomodulatory activities of Vidhara- Amalaki yog (compound formulation of Vidhara and Amalaki) are included in view of the many recent findings of importance on this plant.
... Ram et al. investigated amla's immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties using chromium as an immunosuppressive agent. Emblica Officinalis treatment significantly reduced the generation of free radicals caused by chromium and increased the number of antioxidants [67]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Background The entire world witnessed the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. It has become deadly everywhere across the globe. COVID-19 mortality varies across age groups and has been linked to an individual's innate immunity. In contrast, it was more lethal in immunocompromised people. The spread of viruses is slowed by both passive immunity and vaccine-aided acquired immunity. However, vaccine-induced immunity is transient, and there is no assurance that vaccinemediated antibodies will be effective against all future virus mutants. As a result, natural immunity boosters have become essential supplements that must be used nowadays to stay immunized against such infections. In Ayurvedic medicine, traditional Indian spices have been used for a long time to boost the immune system and fight off different diseases. Objective This review aims to disseminate information about traditional natural medicine in repurposing as an immunity booster and for antiviral effects in COVID-19. Methods Using published articles from recent years, the in silico docking study, survey-based study, and in vitro and preclinical research work on selected traditional herbs for their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulating, and antiviral properties are summarized. Withania somnifera, Piper nigrum, Emblica officinalis, Andrographis paniculate, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ocimum sanctum, Piper longum, and Curcuma longa are some of the most commonly used natural spices studied extensively and hence selected in this review. Results This context summarizes selected plants showing immunomodulatory and antiviral effects in experimental animals, simulation, and clinical studies. Conclusion By virtue of antiviral potential, the chosen herbs could be used for repurposing in COVID-19 management after thorough clinical investigations.
... Fruit of this plant is used in osteoarthritis [97]. Chemical constituents include minerals, amino acids, emblicol, curcuminoids, phyllembelic acid, tannins and phenolic compounds [98]. ...
Article
Review Article This review paper focuses on the biomarkers available for the early diagnosis and investigation in the field of Osteoarthritis. The main aim is to bring out the potential approach in using the herbal medicinal plants in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Considering the adverse effects of synthetic drugs, the western world is looking for natural remedies which are safe and effective. It is also documented that, about 80% of the world's population has a belief in traditional medicine, particularly plant drugs for their primary treatment. Medicinal plants have been known for a golden age and are highly esteemed all over the world as a rich source of therapeutic agents for the prevention of diseases and ailments. Nature has met our nation with a tremendous abundance of restorative plants. OA is a long haul unending sickness described by the degeneration of the cartilage in joints which results in bones scouring together and making solidness, torment, and weakened development. The ailment most generally influences the joints in the knees, hands, feet, and spine and is moderately regular in the shoulder and hip joints. In this way, the portrayal of potential biomarkers is imperative to guarantee their proper and ideal use. The portrayal strategy used to survey biochemical markers in OA is BIPEDS; which represents the Burden of ailment, Investigative, Prognostic, Efficacy of intercession, Diagnostic, and Safety.
... Amalaki Phyllanthus emblica L. Pericarp Phyllemblin, emblicol, phyllemblin, gallic acid, ellagic acid, vitamin C [54] Immunomodulator, [55] neuroprotective [56] ...
Article
Full-text available
Kalyanaka Ghrita (KG) is a polyherbal-medicated Ghrita that is in practice since Vedic times in the traditional system of Indian medicine. Recently, KG was enlisted under the National List of Essential Ayush Medicines, published by the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India, January 2022. Hence, the question always strikes the mind to perceive the historical evolution of KG from the Vedic period to recent times. An extensive literature survey was conducted to search the references of KG in the available Ayurvedic databases to analyze the difference in their herbal ingredients, dose, and therapeutic indications. Total 16 formulations were identified under the name of KG in authoritative textbooks of Ayurveda, with surprisingly similar herbal ingredients and numerous therapeutic indications.
... However, Amalaki churna must be triturated with Amalaki Swaras (M. Sai Ram, 2002). Another ayurvedic polyherbal formulation Immu-21, containing extracts of an Emblica officinalis, Ocimum sanctum, Withania somnifera and Tinospora cordifolia showed immunomodulatory response in mice. ...
Article
Full-text available
Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) (EO), holds a prominent place as a multipurpose medicine in a traditional medical system of India – ‘Ayurveda’. Amalaki, commonly known as Phyllanthus emblica or Indian gooseberry, is a member of the Euphorbiaceae family. Amalaki is thought to be the first tree ever made in the universe. Amalaki is a native of India, although it also grows in Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Sri Lanka, South East Asia, China, and Malaysia in tropical and subtropical climates. The fruits of Amalaki are frequently used in Ayurvedic preparations because they boost immunity to illnesses. It plays a positive function in the treatment of degenerative conditions like cancer, diabetes, liver disease, ulcers, anaemia, eye conditions, and heart problems. It is also a key ingredient in hepatoprotective and rejuvenating formulae. Amalaki has been extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani, and Homoeopathic medicine and has become a cynosure of modern medicine. It is referred to as Amrit Phal and is prominently included in ancient Indian mythological literatures such as the Vedas, Shivpuran, Skandhapuran, Padmapuran, Ramayana, Kadambari, Charak Samhita, Sushrut Samhita, etc. because of its great medicinal and nutritional benefits (life giving fruit). Among anti-aging medications, "Amalaki" holds the top spot. It is the greatest herb for tissue regeneration. The purpose of this paper is to compile the work of Indian medicine in association with modern research to understand the biological and pharmacological activities and the effects of this herb. Keywords: Ayurveda, Pharmacology, Pain, Rheumatism, Rejuvenation, Immunity Booster.
... It also acts as an immune modulator by inducing DNA fragmentation, decreasing apoptosis and cytoprotection against various pathogenic cells and chromium-induced immunosuppressive and cellular stresses. A dosage of 100 mg/mL of P. emblica also restores the decreased level of gamma interferon and interleukin (IL)-2 of lymphocyte proliferation by chromiuminduced immunosuppressive and cellular stress (Ram et al., 2002;Nair et al., 2018;Li et al., 2020). A study by Singh et al. (2013) showed that the aqueous extract of P. emblica serves as an immune-modulatory agent in thymocyte cells of mice against oxidative stress and cytotoxicity caused by arsenic (Singh et al., 2013). ...
Article
Full-text available
Phyllanthus emblica or Indian gooseberry is an integrated part of Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicines. For several decades, the well-known ancient herb has been extensively utilized in traditional medicine to cure diseases like fever, diabetes, constipation, jaundice, ulcers, biliousness, anemia, anorexia, and dyspepsia. In the traditional system, Indian gooseberry has various ethnomedicinal applications. In the Ayurvedic system, different methods of administration (anupan) have shown different ethnomedicinal properties of Indian gooseberry. Seventy well-known chemical components in Indian gooseberry have been identified through phytochemical evaluation, among which the flavonoids and phenols are most prominent. From the toxicity perspective, it is considered a safe herb in India, and is taken as a food supplement in European countries. The wide-spectrum pharmacological activities of the crude extracts and isolates of Indian gooseberry are attributed to the predominance of phenols and flavonoids. Thus, it is important to study the exact mechanism of the activity of the phytochemicals in Indian gooseberry, especially in anti-cancer activities. Extract of Indian gooseberry enhances proliferation in several cancer cells in vitro, including stem cells like ovarian cancer (OC) cells, and also has been observed to possess anti-proliferative characteristics in vivo. This review intends to explore the therapeutic potential of Indian gooseberry based on scientific reports and attempts to find the gaps for future research.
... Amalaki is best among Vayasthpaka herbs. Amalaki, is fortified with Vit-C which is a natural, abundantly available powerful antioxidant, anti inflammatory and free radical scavenger of the metabolism 9 . ...
Article
Full-text available
In pancytopenia due to aplastic anemia (AA), bone marrow hypocellularity leads to hazardous failure of hematopoiesis. Āyurveda treatment was given to a 30-year-old male patient known case of severe acquired AA, considering it under Pāṇḍūroga (~anemia). A study was carried out to search the effectiveness of Āyurveda medications, especially Rasāyana (~immunomodulator) mentioned in the treatment of Pāṇḍū in the management of AA. The patient was administered Rasāyana drugs, such as Śilājatukalpa, Amṛītā-Satta, Punarnavā, and Maṇḍūr having hepatoprotective, anxiolytic, and antioxidant properties, and ĀrogyavardhanīVaṭī, TrikaṭūCūrṇa. Hematological investigations of the patient were carried out every 2 months for 2 and ½ years. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, white blood cell, and red cell distribution width coefficient of variation were in the normal range after treatment. Red blood cells, HB, and platelets were found to be increased, which were not growing before treatment. Liver function test, kidney function test, serum sodium, and potassium were normal during treatment. Complete relief in symptoms was found. The present study concludes that the severity of pancytopenia due to AA can be managed effectively with Ayurvedic medications.
... Extracts from Amla fruit showed strong antioxidant [12,14], antimicrobial [14], antiinflammatory [17,18], and immunomodulatory [19,20] properties; protected against intracellular oxidative stress in mammary cells [12]; and improved the survivability of buffalo calves [21]. These studies' results suggest that Amla fruit could be a potential additive to improve the nutrition and health status of ruminants. ...
Article
Full-text available
Disease is the main reason for the use of antimicrobials in calf rearing, and antibiotics are commonly used to treat calves, including for unknown diseases. This leads to antimicrobial resistance, which is a challenge to the livestock industry and public health. Plant products containing high levels of phytochemicals may improve the immunity and resistance of calves against infections, thereby reducing the use of antimicrobials. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Phyllanthus emblica (Amla) fruit powder (PE) supplementation on antioxidant capacity and immune response of preweaning dairy calves. One hundred, 2-day-old, male Holstein calves were randomly assigned into five treatment groups receiving 0, 5, 10, 20, and 40 g/d PE supplementation. Antioxidant and immune indices and pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines were analyzed from serum samples, whereas 16S rRNA was analyzed from rumen fluid and fecal samples. PE supplementation, at 5 g/d, protected calves against oxidative stress and improved antioxidant enzymes and immune and anti-inflammatory responses, showing its immunity-enhancing and protective roles against infections. However, the antioxidant capacity and immune response decreased with increasing PE levels, illustrating the adverse effects of PE supplementation at higher doses. The analysis of ruminal and fecal bacterial community abundance detected higher proportions of Firmicutes at an early age, and a higher Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes ratio at weaning, in calves supplemented with 5 g/d PE. This contributed to the development of the immune system in early life, and improved immune and anti-inflammatory responses at a later age. The overall results suggest that PE could be supplemented at 5 g/d for preweaning dairy calves to protect against oxidative stress and infections while maintaining normal gut microbial hemostasis.
... E. officinalis has been reported to inhibit DNA fragmentation and is useful in restoring the interferon-g and IL-2 levels. 49 Santoshkumar et al. 50 reported that E. officinalis fruit powder showed a strong anti-inflammatory effect on both acute and chronic inflammation models in comparison with the standard drug, diclofenac sodium. ...
Chapter
Full-text available
Ayurvedic Medicine, or Ayurveda, is a traditional Indian health care system. Research into the medicinal plants utilised in Ayurveda is becoming a global endeavour, and large pharmaceutical companies are investing in novel drug discovery from Ayurvedic sources as a number of clinical studies have demonstrated efficacy of natural products from Ayurvedic plant extracts against common ailments such as arthritis and diabetes. Ayurvedic medicine and its components have been well described in the past, but this book represents a comprehensive source on the biochemistry and mechanisms of the pharmacological effects of natural products from Ayurvedic sources. This book is a valuable resource for researchers in natural products and alternative sources of bioactive compounds in drug discovery, as well as pharmaceutical experts and those in industry.
... Fruit of Emblica (Phyllanthus emblica Linnaeus), a euphorbiaceous plant broadly present in subtropical and tropical zones of China, India, Indonesia, and the Malay Peninsula, exhibited antioxidant [73], hypolipidemic [73], and hypoglycemic activities [74], and antimicrobial [75] and anti-inflammatory properties. Recently, in vitro analysis also showed that this fruit was able to mitigate the immunosuppressant activity of chromium in rat lymphocytes [76]. Emblica extracts presented peculiar cytotoxicity to different tumor cell lines in vitro and in vivo [77,78]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. Anticancer drugs aim to block tumor growth by killing cancerous cells in order to prevent tumor progression and metastasis. Efficient anticancer drugs should also minimize general toxicity towards organs and healthy cells. Tumor growth can also be successfully restrained by targeting and modulating immune response. Cancer immunotherapy is assuming a growing relevance in the fight against cancer and has recently aroused much interest for its wider safety and the capability to complement conventional chemotherapeutic approaches. Natural products are a traditional source of molecules with relevant potential in the pharmacological field. The huge structural diversity of metabolites with low molecular weight (small molecules) from terrestrial and marine organisms has provided lead compounds for the discovery of many modern anticancer drugs. Many natural products combine chemo-protective and immunomod-ulant activity, thus offering the potential to be used alone or in association with conventional cancer therapy. In this review, we report the natural products known to possess antitumor properties by interaction with immune system, as well as discuss the possible immunomodulatory mechanisms of these molecules.
... A study on Phyllanthus emblica and immune response confirmed a positive effect on lymphocyte proliferation (IL-2 and IFN-γ) and high nitric acid (NO) scavenging activity [99][100]. The phytocompounds of Phyllanthus emblica, evidence-based drug glycoproteins (EBDgp), have a strong binding capability than Remdesivir and can be an effective new drug for SARS-CoV-2 RdRp [101]. ...
Preprint
Full-text available
Background Food additives act as preventive measures and promote a healthy immune response against pathogenic diseases. There are several functional food additives with antiviral potential that are part of our daily food supplements, which can be exploited to improve the immunity of the human being during the pandemic of Covid-19. Scope and Approach For the development of this literature, an extensive database search using the scientific databases and Google Scholar, as well as commercial search engines such as Google, Google Patent and Patent Scope to search for commercial and patentable applications. Key Finding Food additives such as Phyllanthus emblica, Long pepper, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Cardamom, Ginger, Garlic, Holy basil, and liquorice are used in traditional cultures as preventative treatments. The phytocompounds extracted from these food additives are immune modulators against various pathogenic inflammations. Enhancing the immune response and boosting health are the benefits of these food additives. Conclusion The phytocompounds extracted from food additives such as Phyllanthus emblica, Long pepper, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Cardamom, Ginger, Garlic, Holy basil, and liquorice are immune modulators against various pathogenic inflammations. The research literature and reputable sources online confirm that functional food additives in a regular diet may help cure Covid-19 disease. It is necessary to conduct scientific research to determine the effectiveness of food additives. Proposes the Future Direction The majority of diseases are caused by metabolic disorders. It is clear that the diet plays a major role in controlling the inflammation associated with diseases and metabolic disorders. There are still a lack of phytochemical screenings and their interaction with metabolism. This effort will help the science community to think outside of the box of medicine. Keywords: Covid-19, Functional Food Additives, Immune Response, SARS-CoV-2
... Studies also confirm the amla's property of boosting immunity where it inhibits chromium induced free radical and restored the antioxidant property by resolving DNA fragmentation and apoptosis. It also showed the immunosuppressive effect of chromium on lymphocyte proliferation and even restored the IL-2 and IFNγ production (Ram et al., 2002). Mechanisms of action of some herbal immunomodulators are summarized in Table 1. ...
Article
Full-text available
Ethnopharmacological relevance The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has relentlessly spread all over the world even after the advent of vaccines. It demands management, treatment, and prevention as well with utmost safety and effectiveness. It is well researched that herbal medicines or natural products have shown promising outcomes to strengthen immunity with antiviral potential against SARS-COV-2. Aim of the review: Our objective is to provide a comprehensive insight into the preventive and therapeutic effects of herbal medicines and products (Ayurvedic) for pre-and post-COVID manifestations. Material and method The database used in the text is collected and compiled from Scopus, PubMed, Nature, Elsevier, Web of Science, bioRxiv, medRxiv, American Chemical Society, and clinicaltrials.gov up to January 2022. Articles from non-academic sources such as websites and news were also retrieved. Exploration of the studies was executed to recognize supplementary publications of research studies and systematic reviews. The keywords, such as “SARS-COV-2, coronavirus, COVID-19, herbal drugs, immunity, herbal immunomodulators, infection, herbal antiviral drugs, and WHO recommendation” were thoroughly searched. Chemical structures were drawn using the software Chemdraw Professional 15.0.0.160 (PerkinElmer Informatics, Inc.). Result A plethora of literature supports that the use of herbal regimens not only strengthen immunity but can also treat SARS-COV-2 infection with minimal side effects. This review summarizes the mechanistic insights into herbal therapy engaging interferons and antibodies to boost the response against SARS-COV-2 infection, several clinical trials, and in silico studies (computational approaches) on selected natural products including, Ashwagandha, Guduchi, Yashtimadhu, Tulsi, etc. as preventive and therapeutic measures against COVID. We have also emphasized the exploitation of herbal medicine-based pharmaceutical products along with perspectives for unseen upcoming alike diseases. Conclusion According to the current state of art and cutting-edge research on herbal medicines have showed a significant promise as modern COVID tools. Since vaccination cannot be purported as a long-term cure for viral infections, herbal/natural medicines can only be considered a viable alternative to current remedies, as conceived from our collected data to unroot recurring viral infections.
... active compounds like emblicanin A, B, and tannins such as punigluconin and pedunculagin are present in amla (Bhattacharya et al., 1999;Bhattacharya et al., 2002). These compounds are known for their immunomodulating effects and gastroprotective properties (Sai Ram et al., 2002;Al-Rehaily et al., 2002). Amla also showed radiation protective ability (Scartezzini and Speroni, 2000). ...
Article
Full-text available
Ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation is a potent environmental stressor and it severely affects the survival, growth, and physiology of aquatic organisms. The UV-B protective properties of three herbal ingredients enriched diets were evaluated in pre-exposed Catla catla. Fish (70.38 ± 1.18 g) were divided into five sets with three replicates each. Four sets were exposed to UV-B (80 µW/cm²) for an initial 10 days (20 min/day), and the fifth one remained unexposed (control). On day 11, feeding with enriched diets started. These diets were: diet 1 (D1) containing Withania somnifera (0.5%) root powder, diet 2 (D2) containing Emblica officinalis (1.25%) fruit powder, diet 3 (D3) containing seeds of Achyranthes aspera (0.5%), and diet 4 (D4) control. There were two batches of D4 diet-fed fish, D4a, UV-B exposed, and D4b unexposed. Blood and tissue samples were collected on days 0, 7, 14, and 21 of feeding. The average weight reduced 26.32% in UV-B exposed catla compared to the unexposed one on day 0. Among the exposed fish, average weight was significantly higher in D3 compared to others throughout the study period. Significantly lower nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and higher thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), carbonyl protein, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and heat shock proteins (Hsp) 70 and 90 were observed in D4a compared to the enriched diet fed catla. The NOS level was significantly higher in D3 on day 21. The TBARS level was significantly lower in D3 on days 7 and 14 and in D2 and D3 on day 21. The carbonyl protein, SOD, and Hsp70 levels were always significantly lower in D3 compared to others, and D2 followed D3 treatment. Hsp 90 was significantly lower in D2 compared to others on day 7 and in D3 on days 14 and 21. All three enriched diets helped the fish overcome the harmful effect of UV-B radiation, and the D3 diet-fed fish showed the best performance.
... It has an antipyretic effect [33]. Emblica officinalis phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, ellagic acid, and gallic acid have a variety of biological actions including anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties [34]. ...
Article
Full-text available
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness global epidemic caused by “Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2”. Acute post COVID syndrome lasts longer than 3 weeks after the main infection, whereas chronic post COVID syndrome lasts longer than 3 weeks after the main infection. Fatigue, dyspnea, low-grade fever, cough, tastelessness, anosmia, chest pain, myalgia, and sleep and mental disturbances are common post-COVID manifestations. The cause of post-COVID syndrome is not well understood. According to Ayurveda concepts, the symptoms of Covid-19 are similar to Vatakapha pradhan Sannipataj Jwara and there will be Dhatu-Kshaya & Agnimandya Avastha in Post-COVID 19 infection. Hence in this condition agnideepana, amapachana, brimhana and rasayana chikitsa is indicated. A Post-COVID management strategy has been issued by the MHFW's Directorate General of Health Services (EMR Division) that include Ayush Kwath, Samshamani vati or Giloy powder, Ashwagandha vati or Ashwagandha powder, Amla fruit or Amla powder, Mulethi powder, Warm Milk with Haldi, Gargling with turmeric and salt, Chyawanprash and daily practice of Yogasana, Pranayama and Meditation. Many research evidences proved that all these drugs possess anti-inflammatory, antistress, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties which help in management of post COVID syndrome.
...  Em bl i ca offi ci n a li s extra ct sh owed immunomudulatory effect via enhancing the proliferation of lymphocytes and by restoration of IL-2 and gamma-IFN production in chromium (Cr)-induced immunosuppression (in vitro) (30) . ...
Article
Full-text available
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders associated with the presence of social-communication deficits and restricted and repetitive behaviours. The description of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as such is not available in classical Unani literature, however its core and associated symptoms are seen in a number to neuropsychological disorders that have been described in Unani classical texts. Autism and other disorders with autistic features fall under the category of Mania, Junoon, subara, qutrub, Kaboos(1, 2). Autism spectrum disorder is generally not curable and hence requires long term management. Pharmacotherapy is mainly used for treating associated symptoms of ASD, like anxiety, irritability, hyperactivity aggression, inattention, self-injury and sleep disturbance or insomnia. Psychotropic drugs are often prescribed for associated behavioural symptoms, but they are encountered with certain side effects. In Unani system of medicine a number of herbal drugs have been used extensively in various neurological disorders because of their neuroprotective properties. These drugs may be beneficial in the management of ASD. The current review paper summarizes the phytochemical constituents, neuro-pharmacological profile and traditional uses of Unani neuroprotective drug Amla (Emblica officinalis).
Article
Full-text available
In India and around the world, people are spending more and more time enjoying sedentary lifestyle. This type of lifestyle decreases our physical fitness and compromises our cardio respiratory endurance. Under such circumstances along with a dynamic change in lifestyle and enhanced physical activity, there arises a need of drugs which can improve the physical fitness and cardio respiratory endurances among the youngsters and the adults. Purpose: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of Ashwagandha and Amalaki Churna as a Rasayana with respect to general physical fitness and cardio-respiratory endurance. Material and Methods: 60 healthy individuals were registered for the present study. The individuals were divided into four groups. Each group comprised of 15 individuals. Group-I individuals were given Amalaki Churna, group-II individuals were given Ashwagandha Churna, group-III individuals were given both Ashwagandha and Amalaki Churna and group-IV individuals were given starch capsules as placebo therapy. The Ashwagandha and Amalaki Churna were given in the dose of 5gm each. Outcome measures: The study subjects were asked to perform tread mill test and TMT related parameters like exercise time, work load attained in terms of Mets, VO2 max, heart rate reserve index and rate pressure product were measured both before and after the completion of 8 weeks of therapy. Apart from this vital capacity and BMI were also measured. Results: After the therapy there was a statistically significant improvement in general physical fitness and cardiorespiratory endurance on various parameters in group-I, group-II, group-III, whereas placebo group did not show any statistically significant improvement. Conclusion: Ashwagandha and Amalaki improved the general physical fitness and cardiorespiratory endurance of the individuals.
Research
Full-text available
Sustained-release and immediate-release tablets of Emblica officinalis have been developed to provide a controlled release of the active ingredients over an extended period of time. The sustained-release tablets are designed to release the active ingredients gradually, ensuring a consistent level of the compound in the bloodstream over several hours. The immediate-release tablets, on the other hand, release the active ingredients quickly, providing a rapid onset of action. The abstract of a study on sustained and immediate-release tablets of Emblica officinalis would summarize the research findings, including the method of preparation, the physicochemical properties of the tablets, and the in vitro and in vivo release characteristics. It may also include information on the pharmacokinetic profile of the tablets, their safety and tolerability, and their potential therapeutic applications.
Article
The main herbal components and their possible immune-boosting effects are covered in detail in this comprehensive assessment. The review emphasises the definition of immunity, many forms of immunity, The properties and roles of immune-related cells T and B lymphocytes. The immune system is shielded from infection by the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory qualities of these herbs, which also have an impact on immune system signs and symptoms. Additionally, it investigates the effectiveness and safety of herbal immune boosters while taking into account both modern scientific research and traditional wisdom. The increasing popularity of herbal immune boosters—natural treatments made from plants—is covered in this abstract. Cardamom, Ashwagandha, Tulsi, Gingseng, Garlic, Ginger, Amla, and Black Pepper are well-liked natural immunity enhancers.
Article
Background The immune system plays a crucial role in protecting the host by regulating biological activities in multiple organs and circulatory fluids. The phytoextracts are evident to modulate a series of biological activities and play a protective role in managing healthy conditions through interaction with the immune system and exhibit antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activities. Purpose Understanding the function and regulation of immunomodulation may provide potential strategies for the development of natural extracts for the management of adverse conditions. Methods In the present study, we have investigated the immunomodulatory activity of proprietary polyherbal formulation (Phytocee™) containing Emblica officinalis, Ocimum sanctum, and Withania somnifera using in vitro macrophage phagocytosis and ex vivo natural killer (NK) cell activity. The effect of water and methanolic extracts of Phytocee on NK cell activity was performed using mice splenocytes as effector cells and YAC-1 fibroblast as target cells. The effect of Phytocee on phagocytosis in murine macrophage (J774A.1) cells against fluorescein-labeled bioparticles was also investigated. Results The significant increase in NK cell activity of 35% at 200 µg/mL of water extract and dose-dependent increase with methanol extract confirmed the NK cell-mediated immunomodulation of Phytocee. A phagocytic accumulation of bioparticles within macrophages at 100 and 200 µg/mL of extract group suggests a macrophage activating role and immuno-effectiveness of Phytocee herbal formulation. Conclusion Based on the current data and the historical use of ingredients in the polyherbal formulation support the immunoprotective role of Phytocee.
Article
Background Itrīfal, an important dosage form of Unani medicine, was introduced some 1000 years ago for the treatment of mainly brain disorders. This semi-solid dosage form is usually prepared by adding the dried fruits of E. officinalis, T. chebula, and T. bellirica, along with other important herbs mainly of plant origin. The present review is aimed at evaluating the potential effects of different formulations of Itrīfal and its important ingredients with respect to traditional uses and scientific studies. Methods The present review was carried out after going through Unani classical literature related to the potential therapeutic uses of various formulations of Itrīfal in cerebral diseases. The scientific data related to pharmacological activities and biologically active compounds of various formulations of Itrīfal and their important ingredients were explored through search engines like PubMed, Science Direct, Springer, MEDLINE, Research Gate, and Google Scholar. Results The review of Unani classical literature revealed that various formulations of Itrīfal eliminate phlegmatic, bilious, and melancholic morbid humors produced because of ihtirāq at the microcellular level in cases of cerebral diseases. The phytochemical review of different ingredients of Itrīfal revealed that they contain various bioactive secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, polyphenols, monoterpenes, alkaloids, glycosides, amino acids, tannins, etc., which possess several pharmacological activities, such as antioxidant, neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, anti-aging, memory enhancer, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, etc., through different mechanisms of actions like inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and butrylcholinesterase enzymes, modulation of neurotransmitters, interaction with adrenergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic systems, blockade of dopamine receptors and enhancement of GABAergic neurotransmission, neurogenesis, synaptogenesis, etc. Conclusion Itrīfal has been prepared by adding rationale mixtures of herbs, which possess preventive and curative effects in brain diseases. They can provide much-needed protection to the brain and nerves against oxidative stress and other disease-oriented factors. The limitations with this unique dosage form of Unani medicine are that adequate scientific studies have not been carried out on different preparations of Itrīfal for holistic and scientific exploration of such an extraordinary dosage form. Hence, it is suggested that more studies on different aspects, like pharmacological, toxicological, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, etc., may be carried out in the future.
Article
Full-text available
Indian gooseberry juice (20% (v/v) was reconstituted with 5% ginger juice (v/v) extracted from freshly harvested rhizomes, 2% each of turmeric rhizome powder and black pepper powder (w/v), followed by raising the total soluble solids to 130Brix by adding sugar syrup. Finally, 5% acid lime juice of 2.45% of titratable citric acid was added to the entire mixture in order to impart a fruity flavour to the product. The entire mixture was homogenized at 175 Bar (2500 psi) with a speed of 235 rpm and was subsequently pasteurized at 1000C for 10 minutes. LC-MS/MS analysis detected phenolic compounds (2-galloyl glucose, 2,6-galloyl glucose), capsaicinoids, curcuminoids, gingerol and shogaol. Though cyclophosphamide significantly inhibited the relative weight of thymus from 0.193 ± 0.048 in normal mice to 0.077 ± 0.034, treatment with the herbal drink significantly increased the relative weight of thymus, showing increased T cell differentiation. Mice treated with the drink showed marginal increase in the WBC count, indicating recovery of immunity. Recovery of bone marrow cellularity in mice fed with the herbal drink was directly proportional to the concentration of the drink. Increase in a-esterase activity was also directly proportional to the concentration of herbal beverage.
Article
Full-text available
Phyllanthus emblica L., or Amla, is known for its therapeutic properties and has been used as a medicinal plant. It is rich in vitamin C and other bioactive phytochemicals like polyphenols, gallic acid, chebulagic acid, leutolin, quercetin, etc. Different parts of this plant are used to treat various viral, bacterial, and fungal diseases. This review article summarizes the recent literature relevant to the antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects of P. emblica. A variety of bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtillus, Enterococcus faecalis, Salmonella typhi, and Escherichia, etc.), fungi (Alternaria alternate Botroyodiplodia theobromae, Colletotrichum corcori, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium exquisite, Fusarium solanii, Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Colletotrichum gleosparoitis, and Macrophomina phaseolina) and viruses, like Influenza A virus strain H3N2, hepatitis B, Human Immunodeficiency virus type‐1 (HIV‐1), Simplex virus type 1 (HSV‐1) and type 2 (HSV‐2) have experimented. Different techniques were used based on the way of identification. `For example, disc diffusion, dilution methods, sound diffusion, Immuno‐peroxidase monolayer assay, serum HBV and HBsAg assay, enzyme immunoassay, etc. The present review analyzed and summarized the antimicrobial activities of P. emblica and possible mechanisms of action to provide future directions in translating these findings clinically.
Chapter
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was the cause of the first pandemic of the twenty-first century, which began in Hubei Province, China, in late December 2019. Researchers across the globe are engaged in developing vaccines and therapeutics to manage COVID-19, but the lack of effective vaccines or drugs with proven therapeutic potential is still a worrying situation, with the total number of cases crossing 34 million and nearly one million deaths as on October 2, 2020. Several existing antiviral drugs, which include nucleoside analogs, protease inhibitors, and viral polymerase inhibitors, have been investigated for potential activity against SARS-CoV-2. Apart from antivirals, several antibiotics and antiparasitic drugs have also shown efficacy in impeding viral propagation and improving related health complications in the host. Virus-induced immunopathology due to the cytokine storm has been tackled using drugs targeting specific cytokines to curtail the symptoms and assist recovery. The repurposed drugs and combined therapies are being evaluated using several drug combinations to lessen the viral load in infected patients. Alongside synthetic drug molecules, natural compounds found to exhibit important immunomodulatory effects in helping the host’s immune system to fight SARS-CoV-2 infection are being considered. This chapter provides comprehensive information on the ongoing research and developments focusing on antiviral therapeutics, their mechanisms, and the status of their efficacy in managing COVID-19 and minimizing the rate of viral infection along with their prospects and obstacles.
Article
Full-text available
Among the eight branches of Ayurveda, Rasayana chikitsa is an important branch. The term Rasayana means the proper ayana (path), the footstep of nutritional requirements, which is the basis for a younger and healthy life. Ayurvedic classics explain Rasayana's effect as attaining longevity, memory, intellect, freedom from diseases, youth, excellence of lustre, complexion, voice, etc. Among the various Rasayana yogas mentioned in Ayurveda, Narasimha Rasayana (NR) is a unique formulation mentioned in Ashtanga Hridaya containing ingredients like Khadira, Chitraka, Shimshapa, Vijayasara, Haritaki, Vidanga, Vibhitaki, Bhallataka, Lohashakala, go-dugdha, Bhringaraja, Shatavari which are processed in navaneeta. The indications of the formulation include a strong, swift and steady physique with shining black hair, good complexion, good intellect, digestive power, etc. In the present review, an attempt has been made to analyse the formulation, highlighting the properties of individual ingredients from a classical and modern perspective. The study revealed that the ingredients of Narasimha Rasayana possess antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-mutagenic and hemopoietic effects, among other qualities, which point towards a possible rejuvenating impact on the human body.
Chapter
Biological or synthetic substances that can stimulate, suppress, or modulate any aspect of immunity including adaptive as well as innate immunity are called immunomodulators. In the management of various morbidities like autoimmune diseases, viral diseases, cancer, and inflammatory conditions, immunomodulators are prescribed enormously. Natural compounds are also used immensely as immunomodulators and are having minimum side effects too. The most important fact is that they can be used to prevent the emergence of diseases as they strengthen the immune system of the body. As new infections like coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) are emerging, which are not manageable effectively by conventional medicine, it is the need of the hour to widely explore the potential of natural immunomodulators. A lot of medicinal plants with immunomodulatory potential have been described in Ayurveda. The present chapter reviews the perspective of immunomodulation in conventional medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, the various plants described in Ayurveda having immunomodulatory potential with their possible mechanism of action and pharmacological test results.KeywordsPlantsAyurvedaImmunomodulatoryIndigenousHerbal
Article
Introduction Immunity can be defined as the ability of the human body to resist almost all types of organisms or toxins that tend to damage tissues and organs. Ayurveda, one of the oldest health sciences has its perspectives and practices on immunology delineated under the heads of Vyadhikshmatwa (tolerance against disease), Ojas (the quintessence of all bodily tissues that is responsible for natural bio-strength, vitality and immunity), Bala (strength), and Vikaravighata Bhavas (disease-resisting factors). Materials and Methods For the present review, the materials were collected from the Ayurvedic literature, including the three major classical texts Brihatrayees Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Samgraha and Ashtanga Hridaya, and their important commentaries by Chakrapani, Arunadutta, Hemadri, Indu, and Dalhana. Information from the current scientific literature, articles published in PubMed, and authentic webpages has also been incorporated into this study. Subsequently, an independent analysis of immunology from Ayurvedic classical texts is presented in this review. Discussion Ayurvedic compendia have vividly described the perspectives and practices of immunity and the promotion of disease-resisting factors. In addition to being the repository of age-old medical practices and the treasure trove of herbal drugs, the immunomodulatory effects of these disease-resisting factors hold up even when bridging with new models based on modern science and technology. Conclusion Rather than being a complementary science, Ayurveda is enriched with the concepts and practices of immunology. In order to free humanity from the grip of infections, it is important to explore the standalone and integrative aspects of science now.
Article
Full-text available
Phyllanthi Fructus (PF), the edible fruits of Phyllanthus emblica L., serves as an important resource for some health products, foods and drugs due to its high safety and sufficient nutritional value. In recent years, in vivo and in vitro experiments have been conducted to reveal the active components of PF. More than 180 compounds have been isolated and identified from the PF so far, primarily including tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, polysaccharides, fatty acids and amino acids. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), PF is used to cure several diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, diabetes, peptic ulcer, hepatopathy, leprosy, and jaundice. Consistent with ethnopharmacology, numerous modern studies have demonstrated that the extracts or monomeric compounds derived from PF exhibit various pharmacological effects including anti-oxidation, anti-bacteria, anti-inflammation, anti-tumour, anti-virus, immunity improvement, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects, and multiple organ protective protection. Toxicological studies on PF indicated the absence of any adverse effects even at a high dose after oral administration. Due to strict quality control, these pharmacological activities and the safety of PF greatly improve the development and utilization of products. Our comprehensive review aims to summarize the phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, toxicology, and product development of PF to provide theoretical guidance and new insights for further research on PF in the future.
Article
Full-text available
Conveyance of pathogens between organisms causes communicable diseases. On the other hand, a non-communicable disease (NCD) was always thought to have no causative transmissible infective agents. Today, this clear distinction is increasingly getting blurred and NCDs are found to be associated with some transmissible components. The human microbiota carries a congregation of microbes, the majority and the most widely studied being bacteria in the gut. The adult human gut harbors ginormous inhabitant microbes, and the microbiome accommodates 150-fold more genes than the host genome. Microbial communities share a mutually beneficial relationship with the host, especially with respect to host physiology including digestion, immune responses, and metabolism. This review delineates the connection between environmental factors such as infections leading to gut dysbiosis and NCDs and explores the evidence regarding possible causal link between them. We also discuss the evidence regarding the value of appropriate therapeutic immunomodulatory nutritional interventions to reduce the development of such diseases. We behold such immunomodulatory effects have the potential to influence in various NCDs and restore homeostasis. We believe that the beginning of the era of microbiota-oriented personalized treatment modalities is not far away.
Article
Herbal plant extracts or purified phytocomponents have been extensively acknowledged in treating several diseases since time immemorial. The Indian Ayurvedic system and Chinese traditional medicines have documented the medicinal properties of important herbs and their effects. In Ayurveda, polyherbal formulation is known to exhibit better therapeutic efficacy compared to single herb. This review focuses on six key ayurvedic herbal plants namely, Tinosporacordifolia (giloi/guduchi), Withaniasomnifera (Ashwagandha), Glycyrrhiza glabra/Licorice (Mulethi), Zingiberofficinale (Ginger), Emblicaofficinalis(Amla) and Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi).Each of these herbal plants possesses specific phytocomponents that aid them in fighting infections and keeping body healthy and stress free. These medicinal plants are known to exhibit several protective features against various diseases or infections. Here we have particularly emphasized on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties which are common in these six plants. Recent literature analysis has revealed Ashwagandha to be protective for Covid-19 too. The formulation from such herbs can exhibit synergism and hence better effectiveness against infection and related diseases. Hence, the importance of these medicinal herbs becomes highly prominent as it maintains the harmonious balance by way of boosting the immunity in a human body. Further, greater mechanistic analyses are required to prove their efficacy to fight infectious diseases like Covid-19. It further opens the arena for in-depth research of identifying and isolating the active components from these herbs and evaluating their potency to inhibit viral infections as polyherbal formulation.
Chapter
The traditional Indian medicine like Ayurveda and Siddha and traditional Chinese medicine remain the most ancient therapies. While Ayurveda originated in North and is popular in entire India and world, Siddha system of medicine is majorly practiced in South of India. Similarly, Chinese system of medicine is also evolved and established in thousands of years. There is an important aspect of maintaining wellness from these traditional systems which includes the concept of development of inherent immunity to sustain better health throughout the life. There has been increased surge of global interest in traditional medicines’ probable prophylactic/therapeutic measure for the modulation of immune response. Herbs have shown potential of being used as immunomodulators especially the drugs used in alternative system of medicine have been documented to possess immunomodulatory properties. Modulation of immune response to mitigate the diseases was the approach of Rasayana in Ayurveda is based on interrelated principles. Rasayana drugs in Ayurveda are known to increase longevity, stop aging, and offer resistance to disease by increasing the immune system. Many plants like Terminalia arjuna, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Withania somnifera, Swertia chirayita, Nardostachys jatamansi, Picrorhiza sps., Chlorophytum borivilianum, Asparagus racemosus, etc. used in Ayurvedic system of medicine for Rasayana therapy have been investigated for their therapeutic effects on the immune system. There have been constant efforts to screen and standardize herbal drugs and traditional medicines from Ayurvedic and Himalayan plants. Traditional system of medicine still necessitates more extensive evidence-based scientific research. This chapter gives an overview of basic principles and cohesions of different traditional medicine system and key elements of these great plant-based traditions need to address to compete in global market. Further it incorporates an extensive data on plants used under these traditional systems as well the mechanism involved in the pharmacological findings with a view to appreciate immunomodulation properties of phytomolecules from these plants.KeywordsTraditional knowledgeAyurvedaimmunomodulatingIndian medicineHerbalPharmacologicalRasayanaPhytopharmaceutical
Article
Full-text available
Emblica officinalis or Phyllanthus emblica Linn, commonly known as Indian gooseberry or Amla, is perhaps the most important medicinal plant in the Indian traditional system of medicine, the Ayurveda. Several parts of the plant are used to treat a variety of diseases, but the most important is the fruit. Many ailments are treated by the fruit which is used either alone or in combination with other plants. These include common cold and fever; as a diuretic, laxative, liver tonic, refrigerant, stomachic, restorative, alterative, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, hair tonic; to prevent peptic ulcer and dyspepsia, and as a digestive..This review summarizes the results related to these properties and also emphasizes the aspects that warrant future research establishing its activity and utility as a cancer preventive and therapeutic drug in humansneuroprotective properties as demonstrated in numerous preclinical studies.
Article
Full-text available
The immune system is the armor of body, which stands against the infection and various diseases. Immune suppression/stimulation may lead to variety of disorders. Immunomodulators help to balance immunity that induces (stimulation) or attenuates (suppression) according to the therapeutic need. From ancient times, natural products have been utilised for the modulation of immune system. Traditional system of medicines such as Ayurveda, Unani, Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) describes varieties of evidences for the vast pharmacological activity. Some of the major plant-derived compounds potentially explored as immunomodulators i.e. curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, andrographolide, genistein etc. Present review will provide an overview on plant-derived immunomodulator metabolites and their effects on immune system.
Article
Full-text available
Indian gooseberry/Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus emblica L) has an amazing nutritional profile and is a reservoir of biologically active compounds which have potential health benefits and are regarded as a remedy for lethal diseases. The unique features of amla, conferred by their bioactive components, have extended future prospects about their usage for useful effects on human nutrition and health globally. With the rapidly growing popularity of this unique therapeutic fruit, it is important to have comprehensive knowledge of this fruit. The current review article presents the nutritional profile, bioactive components, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and postharvest processing of amla fruit. Moreover, studies related to therapeutic properties of amla and its utilization in development of functional foods have been presented in this review. E. officinalis is a promising source of bioactive compounds which showed varied potential in the management of a number of human ailments which has been proven through various studies. Therefore, amla should be taken in the regular diet, thereby utilizing its potential health benefits. Practical applications Amla (Indian gooseberry), as source of natural bioactive compounds, has a great potential application in improving the status of human nutrition and health. The utilization of amla extract has various biological effects, like antimicrobial, antioxidant, gastroprotective, anticancer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, radioprotective, anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory effect, owing to its bioactive components. The use of amla extract has recently increased in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products to replace synthetic antioxidants which have inherent harmful health effects. The review report will provide information on bioactive components, therapeutic properties, utilization of amla in the development of future functional foods, and postharvest processing of amla, which will provide critical information to researchers all over the world.
Article
Full-text available
Our immune system depends on leucocytes or white blood cells which possess the power to produce antibodies to fight various disease‐causing pathogens. People have now realized the crucial role played by the immune system in keeping them healthy. Therefore, recent scenario has witnessed an upsurge in the demand of immunity boosting foods. The use of naturally available fruits as immunomodulators is so ubiquitous and just needs concrete scientific proofs for claiming its efficacy. Many studies have shown that fruits are abundant in bioactive compounds like vitamins (vitamin A, C, E, etc.), minerals, and phytochemicals (like β‐ carotene, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolics, etc.). These components have the potential to enhance our immunity by supporting the proliferation of lymphocytes, scavenging free radical species, reducing oxidative stress, improving anti‐inflammatory as well as immunomodulatory mechanism, and supporting aggregation of platelets. Thus, supplementation of diet with an appropriate amount of fruits daily could support body's natural defense by strengthening our immune response. In this preface, we attempt to summarize the significant role played by various phytochemicals and bioactive compounds of fruits in boosting our immune system.
Article
Full-text available
Extracts of 41 medicinal plants used in Egyptian folk medicine were screened for their inhibitory effects on human immunodeficiency virus-1 reverse transcriptase. The extracts of fruits of Phyllanthus emblica, Quercus pedunculata, Rumex cyprius, Terminalia bellerica, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia horrida showed significant inhibitory activity with IC50 < or = 50 micrograms/ml. Through a bioassay guided-fractionation of the methanol extract of the fruit of P. emblica, putranjivain A (1) was isolated as a potent inhibitory substance with IC50 = 3.9 microM, together with 1,6-di-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose (2), 1-O-galloyl-beta-D-glucose (3), kaempferol-3-O-beta-D-glucoside (4), quercetin-3-O-beta-D-glucoside (5) and digallic acid (6). The inhibitory mode of action by 1, 2 and 6 was non-competitive with respect to the substrate but competitive with respect to a template-primer. Furthermore, the stereochemistry of 1 was established in this paper by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Article
Full-text available
Leaves and fruits of Phyllanthus emblica L. have been used for the anti-inflammatory and antipyretic treatment of rural populations in its growing areas in subtropical and tropical parts of China, India, Indonesia, and the Malay Peninsula. In the present study, leaves of Ph. emblica were extracted with ten different solvents (n-hexane, diethyl ether, methanol, tetrahydrofuran, acetic acid, dichloromethane, 1,4-dioxane, toluene, chloroform, and water). The inhibitory activity of the extracts against human polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) and platelet functions was studied. Methanol, tetrahydrofuran, and 1,4-dioxane extracts (50 µg/ml) inhibited leukotriene B4-induced migration of human PMNs by 90% and N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (FMLP)-induced degranulation by 25-35%. The inhibitory activity on receptor-mediated migration and degranulation of human PMNs was associated with a high proportion of polar compounds in the extracts as assessed by normal phase thin layer chromatography. Diethyl ether extract (50 µg/ml) inhibited calcium ionophore A23187-induced leukotriene B4 release from human PMNs by 40%, thromboxane B2 production in platelets during blood clotting by 40% and adrenaline-induced platelet aggregation by 36%. Ellagic acid, gallic acid and rutin, all compounds isolated earlier from Ph. emblica, could not explain these inhibitory activities on PMNs or platelets by Ph. emblica extracts. These results show that the leaves of Ph. emblica have inhibitory activity on PMNs and platelets, which confirm the anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties of this plant as suggested by its use in traditional medicine. The data suggest that the plant leaves contain as yet unidentified polar compound(s) with potent inhibitory activity on PMNs and chemically different apolar molecule(s) which inhibit both prostanoid and leukotriene synthesis.
Article
Full-text available
The effect of Kombucha tea (KT) on oxidative stress induced changes in rats subjected to chromate treatment are reported. KT feeding alone did not show any significant change in malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels, but did enhance humoral response and delayed type of hypersensitivity (DTH) response appreciably over control animals. Chromate treatment significantly enhanced plasma and tissue MDA levels, decreased DTH response considerably, enhanced glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities; however, no change in GSH, superoxide dismutase and antibody titres was noticed. KT feeding completely reversed the chromate-induced changes. These results show that Kombucha tea has potent anti-oxidant and immunopotentiating activities.
Article
In near-physiological concentrations, glucocorticoid hormones cause the death of several types of normal and neoplastic lymphoid cell, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. One of the earliest structural changes in the dying cell is widespread chromatin condensation, of the type characteristic of apoptosis, the mode of death frequently observed where cell deletion seems to be 'programmed'. It is shown here that this morphological change is closely associated with excision of nucleosome chains from nuclear chromatin, apparently through activation of an intracellular, but non-lysosomal, endonuclease.
Article
Glutathione oxidants such as tertiary butyl hydroperoxide were shown previously to prevent microtubule assembly and cause breakdown of preassembled cytoplasmic microtubules in human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. The objectives of the present study were to determine the temporal relationship between the attachment and ingestion of phagocytic particles and the assembly of microtubules, and simultaneously to quantify the levels of reduced glutathione and products of its oxidation as potential physiological regulators of assembly. Polymorphonuclear leukocytes from human peripheral blood were induced to phagocytize opsonized zymosan at 30 degrees C. Microtubule assembly was assessed in the electron microscope by direct counts of microtubules in thin sections through centrioles. Acid extracts were assayed for reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG), by the sensitive enzymatic procedure of Tietze. Washed protein pellets were assayed for free sulfhydryl groups and for mixed protein disulfides with glutathione (protein-SSG) after borohydride splitting of the disulfide bond. Resting cells have few assembled microtubules. Phagocytosis induces a cycle of rapid assembly followed by disassembly. Assembly is initiated by particle contact and is maximal by 3 min of phagocytosis. Disassembly after 5-9 min of phagocytosis is preceded by a slow rise in GSSG and coincides with a rapid rise in protein-SSG. Protein-SSG also increases under conditions in which butyl hydroperoxide inhibits the assembly of microtubules that normally follows binding of concanavalin A to leukocyte cell surface receptors. No evidence for direct involvement of GSH in the induction of assembly was obtained. The formation of protein-SSG, however, emerges as a possible regulatory mechanism for the inhibition of microtubule assembly and induction of their disassembly.
Article
The protective ability of Emblica officinalis fruit extract (aqueous) in three different concentrations ranging from 1 to 10% has been studied on chromosome aberrations in Allium sativum root tips exposed to 810r X-irradiation. Germinating Allium roots were treated with various concentrations of extract for 12 h before and after irradiation. Protection against radiation induced chromosome bridges and fragments were observed. It was shown that all the concentrations of extract provide protection against radiation induced chromosome damages in both pre and post-irradiation treatments. The radioprotective effects may be attributed to the antioxidation system of ascorbic aci—gallic aci—reducing sugar—tannins as contained by the Emblica fruit.
Article
Three novel bisabolane-type sesquiterpenoids, phyllaemblic acids B (1) and C (2) and phyllaemblicin D (3), together with two new phenolic glycosides, 2-carboxylmethylphenol 1-O-beta -D-glucopyranoside (4) and 2,6-dimethoxy-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)phenol 1-O-beta -D-glucopyranoside (5), were isolated from the roots of Phyllanthus emblica. The structures of 1-5 were established by spectral and chemical methods. The absolute stereochemistry of 1 and 2 was determined by applying the PGME method.
Article
Pretreatment with the butanol extract of the water fraction of Phyllanthus emblica fruits at the dose of 100 mg/kg body-weight, orally administered to rats for 10 consecutive days, was found to enhance secretion of gastric mucus and hexosamine (P<0.001) in the indomethacin induced ulceration of rats. The morphological observations also supported a protective effect of the stomach wall from lesion. The indomethacin treatment of the premedicated animals with the drug hardly affected either the malondialdehyde (MDA) or superoxide dismutase (SOD) level in gastric tissue while the ulcerative agent itself significantly enhanced both the levels. An antioxidant property appears to be predominantly responsible for this cytoprotective action of the drug.
Article
The DNA concentration of a crude cellular homogenate can be measured accurately in the nanogram range using the fluorescence enhancement of 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) or bisbenzimidazole (Hoechst H 33258) complexed with DNA. A simple assay has been devised including an internal standard, which allows reliable measurement and compensates for any quenching due to cellular components or buffer. The fluorescence enhancement is highly specific for DNA; no other cell component produces significant fluorescence. The response is linear over a broad dynamic range making the measurement of unknown DNA concentrations convenient.
Article
Aqueous extracts of Phyllanthus emblica L. fruit and an equivalent amount of vitamin C were administered orally by gavage to laboratory-bred Swiss albino mice for 7 days in order to evaluate the protection afforded by the two extracts against clastogenic effects of different doses of caesium chloride (CsCl) on bone marrow cells of Mus musculus in vivo. Both pretreatments significantly reduced the frequency of chromosome aberrations induced by CsCl given at three different doses, indicating that vitamin C, an essential component of P. emblica extract, was the effective agent in protecting against the clastogenicity of the metal salt.
Article
The comparative efficacy of Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract, and its main constituent, ascorbic acid, in modifying the cytotoxic action of lead and aluminium was evaluated in vivo in bone marrow cells of Mus musculus. Oral administration of Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract for 7 days before exposure to the metals through intraperitoneal injections reduced the frequency of micronuclei induced by all doses of both metals. Priming with comparable doses of synthetic ascorbic acid reduced micronuclei formation induced by both doses of aluminium and only the lower dose of lead. With the higher dose of lead (20 mg/kg body wt.) priming with ascorbic acid increased the frequency of micronuclei when compared with mice administered lead alone. The greater efficacy of Phyllanthus fruit extract in alleviating metal-induced clastogenicity may be due to the combined action of all ingredients in the crude extract, rather than to ascorbic acid alone.
Article
The potential immunomodulatory effects of chromium were investigated using a series of in vitro and in vivo studies. Chromium (as K2CrO4) in concentrations spanning five orders of magnitude was added in vitro to T-lymphocyte (concanavalin A) and B-lymphocyte (liposaccharide) mitogen cultures and was found to inhibit T-lymphocyte responses at all concentrations tested and to inhibit B-lymphocyte responses at all but the lowest concentration tested (0.01 mg/L). When the same concentrations of chromium were employed in mixed lymphocyte cultures, antigen-induced thymidine uptake was inhibited at the highest concentrations (100 mg/L-1 mg/L), enhanced at 0.1 mg/L, and equal to control values at lower concentrations. Splenocytes isolated from rats exposed to K2CrO4 in drinking water exhibited enhanced responses to T- and B-lymphocyte mitogens. The addition of 0.1 mg/L of chromium to a mixed lymphocyte culture containing splenocytes taken from chromium-exposed rats increased by 5-fold the uptake of thymidine by these cells. These increased responses of cells from chromium-exposed rats may indicate chromium-induced sensitization and may possibly be used as a biological marker for chromium exposure.
Article
Extract of Phyllanthus emblica fruit and ascorbic acid were evaluated separately for protection against clastogenicity induced by lead (Pb) and aluminium (Al) salts on mouse bone marrow chromosomes. Oral administration of Phyllanthus fruit extract (PFE) for 7 days before exposure to both metals by intraperitoneal injection increased the frequency of cell division and reduced the frequency of chromosome breaks significantly. Comparable doses of synthetic ascorbic acid (AA) were less effective and could protect against the effects of Al and only a low dose of Pb (10 mg/kg body weight). AA administered before treatment in mice given higher doses of Pb (40 mg/kg body weight) enhanced the frequency of chromosome breaks, giving a synergistic effect. The higher protection afforded by PFE may be due to the combined action of all ingredients, rather than to AA alone.
Article
Emblica officinalis reduced serum cholesterol (p less than 0.001), aortic cholesterol (p less than 0.001) and hepatic cholesterol (p less than 0.001) significantly in rabbits. Emblica officinalis did not influence euglobulin clot lysis time, platelet adhesiveness or serum triglyceride levels.
Article
In near-physiological concentrations, glucocorticoid hormones cause the death of several types of normal and neoplastic lymphoid cell, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. One of the earliest structural changes in the dying cell is widespread chromatin condensation, of the type characteristic of apoptosis, the mode of death frequently observed where cell deletion seems to be 'programmed'. It is shown here that this morphological change is closely associated with excision of nucleosome chains from nuclear chromatin, apparently through activation of an intracellular, but non-lysosomal, endonuclease.
Article
A highly sensitive fluorometric method for the quantitation of cholesterol, lipid, and other hydroperoxides at the picomole level is described. The method is based on the oxidation of dichlorofluoroscin to the fluorescent dichlorofluoroscein by hydroperoxide and hematin under mild conditions. A 1:1 stoichiometry is observed between the hydroperoxide added and the dichlorofluoroscein produced. Since endoperoxides (e.g., PGH2) do not react in the assay, they do not interfere in the determination of lipid hydroperoxides.
Article
Malonaldehyde levels were determined in plasma from patients with myocardial infarction. Patients had significantly elevated mean values when compared with normal subjects. Furthermore, in patients an increase in malonaldehyde was observed during the post infarction period. It seems that the plasma malonaldehyde in patients with myocardial infarction could reflect the platelet aggregability.
Article
Twelve albino rabbits of either sex weighing 1.0-1.25 kg were fed a standard laboratory diet of green grass and sattu (roasted Bengal gram). After a 2-week run-in period their serum cholesterol levels were estimated. All animals were now fed 0.5 g cholesterol and 1.0 g clarified butter daily and were not divided into 3 groups of 4 animals each. While all received the standard cholesterol-rich diet, Group A animals received no additional substances, animals in Group B were each fed 10 mg vitamin C daily, while those in Group C were each given 1.0 g fresh Amla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn). Mean serum cholesterol levels in all three groups rose to significantly higher levels by the end of the second week. There was a further rise by the end of the third and fourth weeks in Groups A and B. However, animals in Group C (i.e. those given Amla) showed significantly lower mean serum cholesterol levels at the end of the second week than their counterparts in Groups A and B. At the end of the third and fourth weeks the differences were even more pronounced.
Article
Chromium and its salts induce cytotoxicity and mutagenesis, and vitamin E has been reported to attenuate chromate-induced cytotoxicity. These observations suggest that chromium produces reactive oxygen species which may mediate many of the untoward effects of chromium. We have therefore examined and compared the effects of Cr(III) (chromium chloride hexahydrate) and Cr(VI) (sodium dichromate) following single oral doses (0.50 LD50) on the production of reactive oxygen species by peritoneal macrophages, and hepatic mitochondria and microsomes in rats. The effects of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) on hepatic mitochondrial and microsomal lipid peroxidation and enhanced excretion of urinary lipid metabolites as well as the incidence of hepatic nuclear DNA damage and nitric oxide (NO) production were also examined. Increases in lipid peroxidation of 1.8- and 2.2-fold occurred in hepatic mitochondria and microsomes, respectively, 48 hr after the oral administration of 25 mg Cr(VI)/kg, while increases of 1.2- and 1.4-fold, respectively, were observed after 895 mg Cr(III)/kg. The urinary excretion of malondialdehyde (MDA), formaldehyde (FA), acetaldehyde (ACT) and acetone (ACON) were determined at 0-96 hr after Cr administration. Between 48 and 72 hr post-treatment, maximal excretion of the four urinary lipid metabolites was observed with increases of 1.5- to 5.4-fold in Cr(VI) treated rats. Peritoneal macrophages from Cr(VI) treated animals 48 hr after treatment resulted in 1.4- and 3.6-fold increases in chemiluminescence and iodonitrotetrazolium reduction, indicating enhanced production of superoxide anion, while macrophages from Cr(III) treated animals showed negligible increases. Increases in DNA single strand breaks of 1.7-fold and 1.5-fold were observed following administration of Cr(VI) and Cr(III), respectively, at 48 hr post-treatment. Enhanced production of NO by peritoneal exudate cells (primarily macrophages) was monitored following Cr(VI) administration at both 24 and 48 hr post-treatment with enhanced production of NO being observed at both timepoints. The results indicate that both Cr(VI) and Cr(III) induce an oxidative stress at equitoxic doses, while Cr(VI) induces greater oxidative stress in rats as compared with Cr(III) treated animals.
Article
Emblica officinalis Gaertn, a tree growing in subtropical and tropical parts of China, India, Indonesia and the Malay Peninsula, has been used for anti-inflammatory and antipyretic treatments of rural populations in these areas. In the present study, we examined the effects of Emblica officinalis extracts on carrageenan- and dextran-induced rat hind paw oedema. Anti-inflammatory activity was found in the water fraction of methanol extract of the plant leaves. The effects of the same fraction were tested on the synthesis of mediators of inflammation such as leukotriene B4 (LTB4), platelet-activating factor (PAF) and thromboxane B2 (TXB2), and on LTB4- and N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (FMLP)-induced migration of human polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) in-vitro. The water fraction of the methanol extract inhibited migration of human PMNs in relatively low concentrations. It did not inhibit LTB4 or PAF synthesis in human PMNs or TXB2 synthesis in human platelets during clotting, suggesting that the mechanism of the anti-inflammatory action found in the rat paw model does not involve inhibition of the synthesis of the measured lipid mediators.
Article
When administered orally, Phyllanthus emblica, an excellent source of vitamin C (ascorbate), has been found to enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity and antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) in syngeneic BALB/c mice, bearing Dalton's lymphoma ascites (DLA) tumor. P. emblica elicited a 2-fold increase in splenic NK cell activity on day 3 post tumor inoculation. Enhanced activity was highly significant on days 3, 5, 7 and 9 after tumor inoculation with respect to the untreated tumor bearing control. A significant enhancement in ADCC was documented on days 3, 7, 9, 11 and 13 in drug treated mice as compared to the control. An increase in life span (ILS) of 35% was recorded in tumor bearing mice treated with P. emblica. This increased survival was completely abrogated when NK cell and killer (K) cell activities were depleted either by cyclophosphamide or anti-asialo-GM1 antibody treatment. These results indicate: (a) an absolute requirement for a functional NK cell or K cell population in order that P. emblica can exert its effect on tumor bearing animals, and (b) the antitumor activity of P. emblica is mediated primarily through the ability of the drug to augment natural cell mediated cytotoxicity.
Article
The identification of desmutagens and bioantimutagens in plants has prompted the search for additional plant extracts capable of modifying adverse cellular effects of environmental toxicants. The protective action of crude extracts of Phyllanthus emblica fruits (PFE) against lead (Pb) and aluminium (Al)-induced sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) was studied in bone marrow cells of Mus musculus. The modifying effect of the crude extract was compared with that of comparable amounts of synthetic ascorbic acid (AA), a major component of the fruits. Oral administration of PFE or AA for 7 consecutive days before exposure of mice to the metals by intraperitoneal injections reduced the frequencies of SCEs induced by both metals. PFE afforded a more pronounced protective effect than AA in counteracting the genotoxicity induced by both Al and Pb: This difference was significant with Pb. The higher protection afforded by PFE may be attributed to the interaction of AA with other natural ingredients present in the crude fruit extract.
Article
The immunomodulatory properties of NIM-76 have been described in this paper. Pre-treatment of rats with a single i.p. injection of NIM-76 resulted in an increase in polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes with a concomitant decrease in lymphocyte counts. The immunomodulatory activity of NIM-76 was found to be concentration-dependent. At 120 mg/kg body weight, there was an enhanced macrophage activity and lymphocyte proliferation response, while the humoral component of immunity was unaffected. At higher concentrations of NIM-76 (300 mg/kg body weight), there was a stimulation of mitogen-induced lymphocyte proliferation, while macrophage activity remained unaffected. However, a fall in primary and secondary antibody titres was observed. The study indicates that NIM-76 acts through cell-mediated mechanisms by activating macrophages and lymphocytes.
Article
Extracts of Emblica officinalis (EO), Phyllanthus amarus (P. amarus) and Picrorrhiza kurroa (P. kurroa) significantly inhibited hepatocarcinogenesis induced by N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) in a dose dependent manner. The anticarcinogenic activity of these extracts were evaluated by their effect on tumour incidence, levels of carcinogen metabolizing enzymes, levels of liver cancer markers and liver injury markers. Animals treated with NDEA alone showed 100% tumour incidence and significantly elevated tissue levels of drug metabolizing enzymes such as glutathione S-transferase (GST) and aniline hydroxylase (AH). Treatment of extracts significantly reduced these levels. Levels of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) were also found to be elevated both in serum and tissues of tumour bearing animals, while they were significantly reduced in the treated group. Similar reduction was seen in tissue levels of reduced glutathione. Serum levels of lipid peroxide (LPO), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and glutamate pyruvate transaminase (OPT), which are markers of liver injury, were also elevated. Morphology of liver tissue and levels of marker enzymes indicated that these extracts offered protection against chemical carcinogenesis.
Article
Plants from all over the world such as Eleutherococcus senticosus, Panax ginseng, Raponticum carthamoides, Rhodiola rosea, Withania somnifera and Ocimum sanctum have been extensively evaluated for their adaptogenic potential. However, none of them has been successfully introduced as an adaptogen in the clinic. This paper discusses some of the problems in evaluation of adaptogens which have precluded their inclusion as clinically useful drugs. We further discuss our results with six rasayana plants from Ayurveda, which were studied for their adaptogenic potential.
Article
The antioxidant activity of tannoid active principles of E. officinalis consisting of emblicanin A (37%), emblicanin B (33%), punigluconin (12%) and pedunculagin (14%), was investigated on the basis of their effects on rat brain frontal cortical and striatal concentrations of the oxidative free radical scavenging enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and lipid peroxidation, in terms of thiobarbituric acid-reactive products. The results were compared with effects induced by deprenyl, a selective monoamine oxidase (MAO) B inhibitor with well documented antioxidant activity. The active tannoids of E. officinalis (EOT), administered in the doses of 5 and 10 mg/kg, i.p., and deprenyl (2 mg/kg, i.p.), induced an increase in both frontal cortical and striatal SOD, CAT and GPX activity, with concomitant decrease in lipid peroxidation in these brain areas when administered once daily for 7 days. Acute single administration of EOT and deprenyl had insignificant effects. The results also indicate that the antioxidant activity of E. officinalis may reside in the tannoids of the fruits of the plant, which have vitamin C-like properties, rather than vitamin C itself.
Article
Aqueous extract of Emblica officinalis (E.O) was found to be cytotoxic to L 929 cells in culture in a dose dependent manner. Concentration needed for 50% inhibition was found to be 16.5 microg/ml. E.O and chyavanaprash (a non-toxic herbal preparation containing 50% E.O) extracts were found to reduce ascites and solid tumours in mice induced by DLA cells. Animals treated with 1.25 g/kg b.wt. of E.O extract increased life span of tumour bearing animals (20%) while animals treated with 2.5 g/kg b.wt. of chyavanaprash produced 60.9% increased in the life span. Both E.O and chyavanaprash significantly reduced the solid tumours. Tumour volume of control animals on 30th day was 4.6 ml where as animals treated with 1.25 g/Kg b.wt. of E.O extract and 2.5 g/kg b.wt. of chyavanaprash showed a tumour volume of 1.75 and 0.75 ml, respectively. E.O extract was found to inhibit cell cycle regulating enzymes cdc 25 phosphatase in a dose dependent manner. Concentration needed for 50% inhibition of cdc 25 phosphatase was found to be 5 microg/ml and that needed for inhibition of cdc2 kinase was found to be >100 microg/ml. The results suggest that antitumour activity of E.O extract may partially be due to its interaction with cell cycle regulation.
Article
Three novel bisabolane-type sesquiterpenoids, phyllaemblic acids B (1) and C (2) and phyllaemblicin D (3), together with two new phenolic glycosides, 2-carboxylmethylphenol 1-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (4) and 2,6-dimethoxy-4-(2-hydroxyethyl)phenol 1-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside (5), were isolated from the roots of Phyllanthus emblica. The structures of 1-5 were established by spectral and chemical methods. The absolute stereochemistry of 1 and 2 was determined by applying the PGME method.
Morphological and biochemical assays of apoptosis Inhibitory effects of Egyptian folk medicines on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reverse transcriptase Agarose gel electrophoresis depicting the DNA damage induced by chromium in the presence/absence of Amla. Arrows indicate the typical DNA ladder
  • R C Duke
  • J J Cohen
  • S El-Mekkawy
  • M R Meselhy
  • I T Kusumoto
  • S Kadota
  • M Hattori
  • T Namba
Duke, R.C., Cohen, J.J. 1992. Morphological and biochemical assays of apoptosis. Current Protocols in Immunology. 1, 3.17.1 Á/3.17.16. El-Mekkawy, S., Meselhy, M.R., Kusumoto, I.T., Kadota, S., Hattori, M., Namba, T. 1995. Inhibitory effects of Egyptian folk medicines on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) reverse transcriptase. Chemical Pharmocology Bulletin 43, 641 Á/648. Fig. 4. Agarose gel electrophoresis depicting the DNA damage induced by chromium in the presence/absence of Amla. Arrows indicate the typical DNA ladder, a hall mark of apoptosis. (A) Control; (B) Cr; (C) Amla; (D) Amla'Cr; (E) molecular weight marker.
Morphological and biochemical assays of apoptosis
  • R C Duke
  • J J Cohen