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Herbal Infusions Used for Induced Abortion
Clinical Toxicology
Abstract
Plants and herbs have been used to induce abortions but there is very little published information describing the commonly used ones. The purpose of this report is to describe the herbal products used to induce abortions, and to enhance awareness and understanding of their toxic effects. A descriptive retrospective survey was conducted on the calls received by the Montevideo Poison Centre between 1986 and 1999 concerning the ingestion of herbal infusions with abortive intent. A total of 86 cases involving 30 different plant species were identified. The species most frequently involved were ruda (Ruta chalepensis/graveolens), cola de quirquincho (Lycopodium saururus), parsley (Petroselinum hortense), and an over-the-counter herbal product named Carachipita®. The components of Carachipita® are pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), yerba de la perdiz (Margiricarpus pinnatus), oregano (Origanum vulgare), and guaycurú (Statice brasiliensis). Abortion occurred in 23 cases after the ingestion of parsley, ruda, Carachipita®, celery, Cedron, francisco alvarez, floripon, espina colorada. Out of the 23 cases, 15 involved the only the ingestion of plants, 4 cases used injected drugs (presumably hormones), and in 4 cases there was associated self-inflicted instrumental manipulation. Multiple organ system failure occurred in those patients who had ingested ruda (alone or in combination with parsley or fennel), Carachipita®, arnica, or bardana. Deaths occurred in one case of Carachipita® ingestion and in 4 cases of ruda ingestion (2 cases of ruda alone, 2 cases of ruda with parsley and fennel). Self-inflicted instrumental manipulations were found in 4 of the patients with multiple organ system failure and in one of those who died. The results of this report are not conclusive, but it appears that the ingestion of plants to induce abortion involves the risk of severe morbidity and mortality.
... Most existing studies were done in countries where abortion was not legal until recently. Abortion did not become legal in Uruguay until 2012 [63], for example, and a 2003 study found that the Montevideo Poison Centre had 86 cases of ingestion of herbal infusions with abortive intent from 1986 to 1999 [27]. In the United States, misinformation surrounding "herbal abortions" in viral videos on TikTok has increased dramatically after legal abortion was overturned [114]. ...
... The consequences of these viral misinformation videos already brought several people to the emergency rooms seeking critical lifesaving treatment, making active prebunking and debunking by qualified health professionals imperative [88]. Nicotinic toxicity: tachycardia, hypertension, headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, muscle weakness and fasciculations, seizures, and coma [84] Eastern Daisy Fleabane Insufficient evidence on the safety and effectiveness as an abortifacient agent [109] Mugwort Vomiting, hypertension, confusion, respiratory distress, coma, and seizures [22] Parsley Abdominal pain, vomiting, genital hemorrhage, anemia, jaudice [27], internal bleeding, convulsions, and death [21] Pennyroyal Gastrointestinal upset, fainting, intestinal bleeding, seizures, hepatomegaly or injury, multiple organ failure, coma, cardiac arrest, and death [41,105] Rue Vomiting, liver damage, anemia, tremors, respiratory distress, multiple organ failure, and death [47] ...
... In reporting the results, we utilized as much as possible verbatim quotation of participants' answers, emphasized in "italics" and with a reference to the participant as either PXYZ# or [PXYZ#], where P denotes participant, X denotes the number of the participant in the sample (ordered by the time of participation), Y denotes their gender identity (F -female, M -male, NC -non-cisgender), Z denotes their political identity (L -left-leaning, M -moderate, R -right-leaning; A -apolitical), and # denotes the upper bound of their age bracket. For example, P16FL30 refers to participant 16, female, left-leaning, age bracket [21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28][29][30]. ...
The scientific effort devoted to health misinformation mostly focuses on the implications of misleading vaccines and communicable disease claims with respect to public health. However, the proliferation of abortion misinformation following the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade banning legal abortion in the US highlighted a gap in scientific attention to individual health-related misinformation. To address this gap, we conducted a study with 60 TikTok users to uncover their experiences with abortion misinformation and the way they conceptualize, assess, and respond to misleading video content on this platform. Our findings indicate that users mostly encounter short-term videos suggesting herbal "at-home" remedies for pregnancy termination. While many of the participants were cautious about scientifically debunked "abortion alternatives," roughly 30% of the entire sample believed in their safety and efficacy. Even an explicit debunking label attached to a misleading abortion video about the harms of "at-home" did not help a third of the participants to dismiss a video about self-administering abortion as misinformation. We discuss the implications of our findings for future participation on TikTok and other polarizing topics debated on social media.
... For many years, parsley (Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss) and its concentrated preparations have been used in South America and Italy to induce abortion, which often ended in death due to severe post abortive vaginal bleeding [136]. The abortifacient effect is attributed to parsley apiole, a main component in most parsley leaf and seed oils. ...
... Rue (Ruta graveolens L.) oil may be abortifacient and should be strictly prohibited in pregnancy and breastfeeding. In South America, Ruta graveolens ingestion caused abortion [136]. Ingestion of rue aqueous extract was abortifacient, and inhibited implantation in rats at 1 mL/kg [9]. ...
Even though several plants can improve the female reproductive function, the use of herbs, herbal preparations, or essential oils during pregnancy is questionable. This review is focused on the effects of some essential oils and their constituents on the female reproductive system during pregnancy and on the development of the fetus. The major concerns include causing abortion, reproductive hormone modulation, maternal toxicity, teratogenicity, and embryo-fetotoxicity. This work summarizes the important studies on the reproductive effects of essential oil constituents anethole, apiole, citral, camphor, thymoquinone, trans-sabinyl acetate, methyl salicylate, thujone, pulegone, β-elemene, β-eudesmol, and costus lactone, among others.
... Among them, Ruta is the richest genus of the Rutaceae family, native to Southern Europe and North Africa known as a medicine to treat various diseases since ancient times (2,3). Notably, the number of Ruta species may vary from as few as eight up to 160 species (4). ...
Ruta angustifolia, a wild plant which largely grows in Morocco, is commonly used in folk medicine
and is believed to possess several therapeutic properties. In the present work, we aimed to
determine the chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of the essential
oil obtained from the aerial parts of Ruta angustifolia collected from the Rif region in Morocco. The
employment of gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detector and mass spectrometry
detection led to the identification of five major components, representing 91.69 % of the total
volatile fraction with a dominance of nonyl methyl ketone (accounting for % 86.97 % of the whole
sample). The tested essential oil displayed moderate antioxidant activity and a strong antifungal
effect against Fusarium oxysporum and Botrytis cinerea with MIC values equal to 7 µL/mL and 0.81
µL/mL respectively. However, no antibacterial effect was revealed against Gram-negative or Gram-positive bacterial strains.
... These studies indicated that consuming parsley-containing teas or supplements for a short period (a few weeks) is likely to pose a low risk; however, it may be an issue for long-term use [99,100]. The consumption of parsley may also be a concern during pregnancy, as the plant is reported to be applied in infusions used to induce abortions [101]. ...
Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss (Apiaceae), popularly known as parsley, is a ubiquitous aromatic herb used for culinary and medicinal purposes worldwide. In addition to the richness in nutrients, several bioactive secondary metabolites, especially the flavone apigenin and its glycosides, have been described in this species. Parsley has already been shown to have several health-promoting activities, such as antithrombotic, antihypertensive, and hypolipidemic properties. The multiple studies conducted in animal models so far suggest this species is a potential source of cardioprotective agents. This review provides up-to-date information and perspectives on the potential of parsley and its bioactive compounds for the development of nutraceutical products and drugs for promoting cardiovascular health. It includes not only a discussion of parsley’s reported bioactivities but also the knowledge of supplements and food additives developed as innovative parsley-based products.
... Animal studies with pregnant rats or mice have shown the teratogenic risk of bitter gourd seed, however the decision was made based on the possibility that the seeds could be consumed in combination with the pulp 21) . Parsley, another herb frequently used as a traditional abortifacient, was also deemed high risk owing to reports of seven miscarriages by oral ingestion and injection into the body, the hormonal actions of the extract, and the mutagenic potential of the myristicin component 22,23,24) . ...
Objectives: This study aimed to establish and provide reliable information for general public, based on expert consensus, on the risks of misuse of medicinal herbs for food and pure food ingredients for the fetus during pregnancy.Methods: A panelist of seven traditional Korean medicine (TKM) gynecologists responded to a questionnaire summarizing the fetal safety literature for twenty-five medicinal herbs for food and pure food ingredients derived from medicated diet (藥膳, Yaksun) recipes during three online Delphi rounds anonymously.Results: Ginkgonis Semen (Ginkgo nut), Illici Veri Fructus (Star anise), lavender, bitter gourd, and parsley were agreed at the level 1 of “Do not consume”. These five ingredients were recognized as having significant risks both in the literature evidence and in expert opinion. Rosemary, Citri Unshius Pericarpium, Discoreae Rhizoma, lemongrass, Schisandrae Fructus, Cassiae Semen, Foeniculi Fructus, Mori Fructus, Cinnamomi Cortex, and Astragali Radix were agreed at the level 2 of “consultation with TKM practitioner is required”.Conclusion: Based on the consensus of a seven-member expert panel of TKM gynecologists, consumption of Ginkgonis Semen (Ginkgo nut), Illici Veri Fructus (Star anise), lavender, bitter gourd, and parsley should be avoided by pregnant women. For Rosemary, Citri Unshius Pericarpium, Discoreae Rhizoma, lemongrass, Schisandrae Fructus, Cassiae Semen, Foeniculi Fructus, Mori Fructus, Cinnamomi Cortex, and Astragali Radix, the level 2 advisory may be recommended to use with caution and to consult a TKM practitioner for advice on consumption, dose, and duration.
... However, the herbs, high dosage of pharmaceutical drugs, and homemade concoctions that most women and girls in our study used are just as dangerous as invasive techniques [36]. In addition to the potential for incomplete abortion that risks women's lives, these methods' effects and potential harm have not yet been fully established, a concern that has been expressed by other studies examining the use of herbs for abortive intent [37,38]. ...
Background
Despite the increased availability of safe abortion methods in sub-Saharan Africa, women and girls continue to use unsafe abortion methods and procedures to terminate their unwanted pregnancies, resulting in severe complications, lifelong disabilities, and death. Barriers to safe abortion methods include restrictive laws, low awareness of safe abortion methods, poverty, and sociocultural and health system barriers. Nonetheless, there is a paucity of data on the decision-making around and use of abortion methods. This paper aims to provide answers to the following questions: Which abortion methods do women and girls use and why? Who and what influences their decisions? What can we learn from their decision-making process to enhance the uptake of safe abortion methods? We focus our in-depth analysis on the rationale behind the choice of abortion methods used by women and girls in Kilifi County in Kenya and Atlantique Department in Benin.
Methods
We draw on data collected as part of an ethnographic study conducted between January and August 2021 on lived experiences, social determinants, and pathways to abortion. Data were collected using repeated in-depth interviews with 95 girls and women who had a recent abortion experience. Data from the interviews were supplemented using information from key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and participant observation. Data analysis was conducted through an inductive process.
Results
Our findings reveal that women and girls use various methods to procure abortions, including herbs, high doses of pharmaceutical drugs, homemade concoctions, medical abortion drugs, and surgical abortion methods. Procedures may involve singular or multiple attempts, and sometimes, mixing several methods to achieve the goal of pregnancy termination. The use of various abortion methods is mainly driven by the pursuit of social safety (preservation of secrecy and social relationships, avoidance of shame and stigmatization) instead of medical safety (which implies technical safety and quality).
Conclusion
Our findings reaffirm the need for comprehensive access to, and availability of, abortion-related information and services, especially safe abortion and post-abortion care services that emphasize both medical and social safety.
... In the traditional and popular medicine of several countries, this plant is sometimes used alone or in combination with other plants as a treatment for several diseases. The leaf decoction of Trema orientalis mixed with leaves of Bidens pilosa, Citrus aurantifolia and unripe pineapple peels, is used in the treatment of jaundice 3 .Trema orientalis infusions are also used as an emmenagogue, to induce abortions 4 . In Togo this plant is used to treat several disease such as hypertension or hepatic insufficiency 5 . ...
Trema Orientalis is a medicinal plant used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases including hypertension. The present study was undertaken to investigate phytochemical compounds, diuretic activity and subacute toxicity of the hydromethanolic leaf extracts of Trema orientalis. Phytochemical analysis carried out through color and precipitation reactions revealed the presence of many metabolites. The measurement of diuretic activity carried out by saline overload with 0.9% NaCl at a dose of 50 mL/kg in wistar rats showed that the hydromethanolic extract of Trema orientalis leaves had diuretic activity at a dose of 200 mg/kg of body weight. However, this diuretic activity was relatively low compared to the action of the reference molecule, furosemide. The study of the subacute toxicity of the extract took place over 28 days. No significant difference was recorded in the body weights during the 28 days of the study. Likewise, the weight of the organs collected after sacrifice of the rats and their macroscopic aspects did not show any significant difference with those of the control group. The extract increased the count of white and red blood cells as wells as platelets, practically at the two doses used and caused a decrease in ALT at the dose of 500 mg/kg. The extract could have a beneficial effect like a boosting immunity and would not present any toxicity at these doses. Keywords: phytochemical, diuretic, subacute toxicity, Trema orientalis
... Feverfew tea, traditionally used for the treatment of fevers and headache, is also a potent abortifacient (which is another traditional use), and is contraindicated in pregnancy [171]. Parsley, pennyroyal, calendula, saffron, knotweed, nutmeg, and many other polyphenol-containing plants have also been associated with a risk of miscarriage [172][173][174]. Moreover, plant products containing isoflavonoids or thiocyanate, such as green tea, lemon balm leaves, and soy beans, are suggested to inhibit thyroperoxidase and/or tissue deiodinases, leading to early maternal hypothyroxinemia that may induce severe neurological damage during the sensitive period of neuronal cell migration [175]. ...
Polyphenols are a group of phytochemicals with extensive biological functions and health-promoting potential. These compounds are present in most foods of plant origin and their increased widespread availability through the intake of nutritional supplements, fortified foods, and beverages, has also led to increased exposure throughout gestation. In this narrative review, we focus on the role of polyphenols in both healthy and pathological pregnancy. General information related to their classification and function is followed by an overview of their known effects in early-pregnancy events, including the current insights into molecular mechanisms involved. Further, we provide an overview of their involvement in some of the most common pregnancy-associated pathological conditions, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus. Additionally, we also discuss the estimated possible risk of polyphenol consumption on pregnancy outcomes. The consumption of dietary polyphenols during pregnancy needs particular attention considering the possible effects of polyphenols on the mechanisms involved in maternal adaptation and fetal development. Further studies are strongly needed to unravel the in vivo effects of polyphenol metabolites during pregnancy, as well as their role on advanced maternal age, prenatal nutrition, and metabolic risk of the offspring.
... The plant is known for its abortifacient, anthelmintic and emmenagogue effects and its depressant effect on the central nervous system [5]. Furthermore, R. chalepensis is used as an anthelmintic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic and abortifacient [6]. It is also used to treat snake and scorpion bites, as a hair tonic and as an ...
Ruta chalepensis, known as Fringed Rue, is a small shrub of the Rutaceae family. To date, there is no record of its natural distribution across Jordan, a country located in the eastern part of the Mediterranean basin, and there are no previous studies on its genetic diversity in the region. Therefore, this study was conducted to assess the genetic diversity of R. chalepensis in the northern parts of Jordan using morphological trait and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analyses. For the morphological traits, the analysis of variance indicated that there were significant differences between the identified populations. The Shannon diversity indices showed relatively high values, indicating the existence of a high variability among the identified populations. The principal component analysis explained 82% of the variation between the collected plants, and a clear separation of the collected individuals from the Jarash-A, Jarash-B and Ajloun-B populations from the rest of the populations was observed. The heatmap clustering was in general agreement with the results of the principal component analysis, with the plant height, rachis length and plant width considered as the discriminative traits. The AFLP analysis using eight different primer combinations generated 59 polymorphic bands, with an average polymorphism information content value of 0.32. The phylogenetic analysis identified three main clusters, with the first cluster including 65% of the individuals collected from the Jarash and Ajloun provinces, with a clear separation of the Jarash-B population. The AMOVA revealed that the genetic variation between the populations contributed 30% of the total genetic variation, while the variation within the populations explained 70%. In conclusion, morphological traits and molecular markers were used successfully to assess the genetic diversity among wild R. chalepensis from the north of Jordan, and such data can be used for future conservation plans and utilization purposes.
... Abortifacients are compounds that induce miscarriage or abortion, and the herbs used for such purposes, either intentionally or by misconception may pose toxicity risks to the administering mother. The use of herbs and plant extracts to intervene with pregnancy and enforce menses is one ancient folk practice that entails complex social, legal, ethical, and health aspects [1]. Values are presented as mean (n = 6) ± SD and statistical analysis was carried out using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc multiple comparison test. ...
Pregnant women usually turn to natural products to relieve pregnancy-related ailments which might pose health risks. Mentha pulegium L. (MP, Lamiaceae) is a common insect repellent, and the present work validates its abortifacient capacity, targeting morphological anomalies, biological, and behavioral consequences, compared to misoprostol. The study also includes untargeted metabolite profiling of MP extract and fractions thereof viz. methylene chloride (MecH), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), butanol (But), and the remaining liquor (Rem. Aq.) by UPLC-ESI-MS-TOF, to unravel the constituents provoking abortion. Administration of MP extract/fractions, for three days starting from day 15th of gestation, affected fetal development by disrupting the uterine and placental tissues, or even caused pregnancy termination. These effects also entailed biochemical changes where they decreased progesterone and increased estradiol serum levels, modulated placental gene expressions of both MiR-(146a and 520), decreased uterine MMP-9, and up-regulated TIMP-1 protein expression, and empathized inflammatory responses (TNF-α, IL-1β). In addition, these alterations affected the brain's GFAP, BDNF, and 5-HT content and some of the behavioral parameters escorted by the open field test. All these incidences were also perceived in the misoprostol-treated group. A total of 128 metabolites were identified in the alcoholic extract of MP, including hydroxycinnamates, flavonoid conjugates, quinones, iridoids, and terpenes. MP extract was successful in terminating the pregnancy with minimal behavioral abnormalities and low toxicity margins.
... Although some toxic essences have been deliberately abused for their effects. For example, pennyroyal oil induces abortions and hallucinations, lemon oil is considered as a psychedelic [67,68]. EOs potential to substitute antibiotics are recognized as safe with a long tradition in herbal medicine. ...
Simple Summary
Essential oils are regarded as possible substitutions of antibiotics. Some of them show strong antibacterial effects, and other positive effects in the nutrition of monogastric animals. The article aims to summarise the final state of the art concerning their pharmacokinetics in the organism. Last but not least, great attention is paid to their potential toxic effects.
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) are now a hot topic in finding modern substitutes for antibiotics. Many studies have shown positive results and confirmed their high antibacterial activity both in vitro and in vivo. Deservedly, there is an attempt to use EOs as a substitute for antibiotics, which are currently limited by legislation in animal breeding. Given the potential of EOs, studies on their fate in the body need to be summarized. The content of EO’s active substances varies depending on growing conditions and consequently on processing and storage. Their content also changes dynamically during the passage through the gastrointestinal tract and their effective concentration can be noticeably diluted at their place of action (small intestine and colon). Based on the solubility of the individual EO’s active substances, they are eliminated from the body at different rates. Despite a strong antimicrobial effect, some oils can be toxic to the body and cause damage to the liver, kidneys, or gastrointestinal tissues. Reproductive toxicity has been reported for Origanum vulgare and Mentha arvensis. Several publications also address the effect on the genome. It has been observed that EOs can show both genoprotective effects (Syzygium aromaticum) and genotoxicity, as is the case of Cinnamomum camphor. This review shows that although oils are mainly studied as promising antimicrobials, it is also important to assess animal safety.
... The mass spectra of four common bioactive molecules found in the methanol extract are shown in Figure 2. These results justify the following comments: 1) Apiol occurs in other members of the Apiaceaefamily and has had a significant role in the termination of pregnancy by provoking abortions [31]. 2) Scoparone (6, 7-dimethoxycoumarin) is recognised as a vasodilator, smooth muscle relaxant and ananti-inflammatory agent. ...
Background: Steganotaenia araliacea is a multipurpose plant and has wider applications in the folklore for the treatment of various ailments. Previously the presence of antileukemic lignan lac-tones and saponins was detected in the stem bark, root and leaf of Steganotaenia araliacea. Besides , the diuretic and antibacterial activities of the plant were reported. However, there has been no attempt to examine the constituents of the seeds of Steganotaenia araliacea. This paper reports the first such study of both the essential oil and methanol extract of the seeds of the plant. Methods: The seeds of the plant were shade dried, pounded and thus extracted using methanol. Besides, the essential oil of the seeds was collected using steam distillation. The components of the methanol extract were studied both by GC-MS and preliminary phytochemical studies; the essential oil was running on GC-MS for analysis. Results: The GC-MS analysis of the essential oil of the seeds identified the presence of α-linalool, α-pinene, m-cresol, p-menth-1-en-4-ol, p-menth-1-en-8-ol, myristicin and others. Besides, the methanol extract of the seeds showed the presence of falcarinol, apiol, scoparone, stigmasterol, myristicin etc. The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the methanol extract of the seeds confirms the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, coumarines, steroids, and phenols. Conclusion: This plant contains bioactive metabolites and thus can be used as an alternative and complementary medicine in treatment of different ailments. However, further studies on the bioactivity and toxicity of the plant should be done.
Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Cyathea manniana Hook (Amharic: Sheshino) is one of the traditionally used medicinal plants and a multipurpose tree fern that belongs to the family Cyatheaceae. The leaves of this plant are traditionally utilized for their antifertility and antibacterial activities by the Shekicho and Kafficho people, who are native to the southwestern part of Ethiopia. Aim of the Study: To investigate the abortifacient and acute toxic effects of the hydro-ethanolic extract of Cyathea manniana leaves in Swiss albino rats. Methods: Dried leaf powder of the plant was extracted using 80% ethanol in water, yielding a crude plant extract after evaporation. The extract was screened for major secondary metabolites using standard phytochemical screening techniques. Fertilization was induced by mating mature female rats with males overnight in a metallic mating cage. The antifertility effects of the crude extract were examined at doses of 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg. Rats were anesthetized with diethyl ether for laparotomic assessment of the uterus, ovaries, and corpora lutea. A one-way ANOVA was used to compare the mean number of corpora lutea between control and experimental groups. Results: The plant extract was relatively safe up to a dose of 500 mg/kg, with no deaths or apparent organ toxicity observed. Compared to the controls, both the 300 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg doses of the extract exhibited 80% and 100% anti-implantation activity, respectively, as well as 80% abortive activity at both doses. The extract tested positive for major metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, and tannins. Conclusions: The findings of this study support the traditional claims regarding the use of Cyathea manniana for antifertility purposes. Further studies should be conducted to assess the activity of the fractionated extract, elucidate potential compounds responsible for its activity, and explore the molecular mechanisms underlying its antifertility effects. Clinical Trial Number: Not applicable.
Background
Herbal medicine has a long history of traditional use, but its integration into modern dentistry faces barriers like insufficient evidence and knowledge.
Objective
This is the first study of its kind in Syria that aimed to assess the knowledge and perspectives of future dentists regarding the use of medicinal plants in dental practice, their benefits, and their side effects.
Methods
A cross‐sectional questionnaire‐based study was conducted among 323 Syrian dental students to evaluate their awareness, attitudes, knowledge sources, and experiences with herbal medicine.
Results
99.1% recognized herbs can serve as medicine, but only 47.4% had prior usage, with efficacy unclear. Most (86.4%) agreed plants are important in dentistry and 83% knew of interactions with traditional drugs. The internet, elders, and lectures were key knowledge sources. Rural students and prior herb users had greater awareness of applications. 83.9% were interested in learning more, and 72.1% supported integrating herbal medicine courses. The main barriers were a lack of scientific evidence and education.
Conclusions
Syrian students demonstrated good knowledge about herbal medicine and the risks of its random usage strongly support integrating evidence‐based herbal medicine into dentistry. However, efficacy and safety knowledge gaps currently limit practical application. Targeted research, formal training, and clinical guidance focused on beneficial plants could enable dentists to effectively advise patients on traditional interventions alongside conventional approaches.
Background
The treatment of severe bleeding, stopping pregnancies, and other gynecologic conditions have all been addressed by women using traditional medicines and methods. Even though research has been done to explore these concerns more, evidence is limited in developing countries, particularly in Ethiopia Hence, this study sought to investigate the traditional treatments and remedies employed by women in pastoralist communities living in southwestern Ethiopia.
Objective
To explore and determine traditional medicines used for bleeding control and termination of pregnancy among Suri People, South West Ethiopia, 2022.
Method
A mixed-method exploratory sequential study design was conducted at selected kebeles of Suri District, South West, Ethiopia, from February 1 to August 30, 2022. Convenience and purposive sampling techniques were implemented for quantitative and qualitative studies, respectively. SPSS version 26 and Atlas.ti version 22 software were used for data analysis for the quantitative and qualitative parts, respectively.
Result
60 People participated in the qualitative study and 350 women participated in the quantitative study, making a 100% response rate. Qualitatively Blood tree, Shawly tree, and Sitch lady were utilized for bleeding control, and, the root of banana, the root of maize, Quartum, Teteracycle with alcohol, boiled alcohol, soot grass leave olive and salty soil were used for pregnancy termination. Quantitatively the proportion of women who used traditional medicines for abortion, and bleeding control were 38%, and 36% respectively. Blood tree (28%),Shawly tree(38%), and Sitch lady(34%) were the most commonly reported traditional medicines or methods used for bleeding control. Similarly, the root of banana (15%), the root of maize (19%), Teteracycle with alcohol (14%), Quartum (17%), boiled alcohol (15%), and soot grass (20%).
Conclusion
Suri women use various plants, alcohol, and drugs to interrupt pregnancy as well as blood and shawily trees to manage bleeding during (heavy menstrual, abortion, and postpartum periods). To help people use safe methods and avoid those that have a negative impact on mothers, it is imperative to investigate more about the value of these traditional methods. Further botanical study is recommended to scientifically evaluate the traditional medicine obtained from different plants.
Medicinal plants form an integral part of traditional health care systems in Uganda and are known to possess a variety of bioactive compounds some of which are beneficial as contraceptives. This study documented indigenous traditional knowledge on medicinal plant species used in contraception and other reproductive health care-related issues in rural Uganda. An ethnobotanical study was conducted from December 2019 to August 2020 in four different regions of Uganda: Mpigi, Kamuli, Bushenyi and Arua. Data was obtained from 158 traditional medical practitioners using semi-structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data while quantitative analysis of data was done using the informant consensus factor (FIC), Percentage Use Value (PUV) and Jaccard Index (JI). The study recorded 98 medicinal plant species with the potential to manage family planning and other reproductive health related conditions. The most represented family was Asteraceae with 18 species. Plant remedies were mainly prepared as decoctions (41 %) and administered orally (36 %). Most plant species (61 %) were harvested from wild habitats. Herbs (50 %) and leaves (50 %) contributed the highest percentage of plant growth forms and parts used respectively. The FIC value of 0.6 demonstrated that the herbalists, traditional birth attendants and community elders tend to agree with each other regarding plant species used and administration. JI ranged from 13 % to 0.9 %, an indication of very low similarities between the plants used in family planning and traditional health care among the communities in the study areas. The most frequently cited plant species for family planning management were: Prunus africana (Hook.f.) Kalkman (14: with a PUV of 45.2 %): Sporobolus pyramidalis P.Beauv. (10: 19.6), Warburgia ugandensis Sprague (10: 23.1) and Dichrocephala integrifolia (L.f.) Kuntze (7 ‵: 26.9). There is a high diversity of the species and a wealth of indigenous traditional knowledge for contraceptives and reproductive health care. Species like Prunus africana, Warburgia ugandensis and Dichrocephala integrifolia with high percentage use values are trusted by the community and can be investigated further for contraceptive potential to confirm their efficacy.
Visando contribuir para o fortalecimento do uso adequado de fitoterápicos na Atenção Primária à Saúde (APS), este estudo apresenta resultados de pesquisa exploratório-descritiva que buscou avaliar o risco associado ao uso de plantas medicinais. Foi realizado um levantamento etnobotânico e etnofarmacológico junto à população da área de abrangência de uma Unidade de Saúde da Família (USF) rural localizada em um município da região Sul do Brasil. Em 80,65% dos domicílios visitados, verificou-se que o uso terapêutico de plantas medicinais estava associado a medicamentos de uso contínuo, e 51,61% dos entrevistados relataram não comunicar o uso de plantas medicinais ao profissional de saúde. 58,33% das espécies identificadas apresentaram possíveis riscos, contraindicações ou toxicidade, e 35,83% apresentaram possíveis interações com medicamentos convencionais de acordo com a literatura consultada. Discute-se sobre os riscos associados ao uso dessas plantas nessa população, e apresentam-se sugestões e orientações para minimizar esses riscos.
Background:
In the post-Roe era, barriers to facility-based abortions may lead to an increased incidence of self-managed abortions. While misoprostol-based medication abortions have significant literature supporting its safety profile, there is a knowledge deficit within the medical community regarding the toxicities of commonly used herbal abortifacients.
Methods:
This is a narrative review, based on a MEDLINE and HOLLIS database search, of self-managed abortion methods with herbal abortifacients and their associated toxicities.
Results:
Common herbal abortifacients with significant morbidity and mortality implications include pennyroyal, blue cohosh, rue, and quinine. Other commonly reported abortifacients considered to be less toxic also are discussed in brief. Special considerations for hepatic, cardiac, renal, and hematologic toxicities are important in patients with significant exposures to these herbal substances.
Conclusion:
There is an anticipated increase in the utility of herbal xenobiotics for self-managed abortions with post-Roe restrictions to standard mifepristone-misoprostol protocols. Frontline providers should be aware of the associated toxicities and have special considerations when treating a poisoned patient in this population.
Pulegone ((R)-5-Methyl-2-(1-methylethylidine) cyclohexanone), is a pharmacologically active, natural monoterpene ketone obtained from leaves and flowering tops of the mint family (Lamiaceae). The aim is to comprise the physicochemical and biological aspects of pulegone.All significant databases were collected via electronic search using Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct and were compiled. This review presents the occurrence, chemistry, modifications of pulegone structure and its effect on the biological system. Pulegone represents various pharmacological properties, i.e., antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-feeding, antifungal, antiviral, and pesticide activities, and has a significant role as an abortifacient and emmenagogue. Thus, this present review concludes the knowledgeable erudition on pulegone which paves the way for further work.
Kidney stones are among the oldest and most widespread urinary tract ailments, impacting people all over the globe with a high recurrence rate. The mechanism of kidney stone formation includes events such as urine supersaturation, aggregation, retention, nucleation, and growth of crystals in the cells of the renal tubular epithelium. Kidney stones may cause extreme pain and blockage of urine flow. They are usually treated with synthetic drugs and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) as well as a variety of medications that may cause several adverse effects. The remaining stone fragments and the risk of infection following ESWL are severe problems in the treatment of kidney stones. Recently, despite the emergence of synthetic drugs, medicinal plants have been recognized and utilized in many nations due to their safety profile, efficiency, cultural acceptance, and fewer side effects than synthetic drugs. Medicinal plants are used in different cultures as a reliable source of natural remedies. The aim of this review is to provide comprehensive information about traditionally used antiurolithiatic plants as well as their scientifically proven pharmacological activities, their primary chemical ingredients, and potential mechanisms of action, such as analgesic, astringent, demulcent, diuretic activity, antioxidant activity, inhibition of the inflammatory process, nucleation inhibition, crystallization inhibition, inhibition of crystal aggregation, reducing hyperoxaluria, reducing stone size, and reducing urine supersaturation.
Ruta is a common plant growing in Italy and in the Mediterranean area. It has been used in popular tradition with different aims, ranging from therapeutic to esoteric purposes. However, the plant is still used as a common remedy in some of present-day rural and urban communities and it can be found in gardens all over Europe. Ruta's photosensitizing effect has been described in the literature and seems to be mediated by furanocoumarins. We collected data from the 18 case-reports for a total of 32 patients that we included in our analysis, assessing demographic variables, clinical findings, diagnosis, time of onset of lesions, time of resolution and therapy. The main aim of this work was to outline the clinical presentation, therapeutic management and demography of phytophototoxic reactions from contact with Ruta in order to suggest the correct diagnostic approach and disease recognition, as well as its possible prevention.
Animal reproduction is an integral component for a sustainable livestock production. Enhancing the reproduction potential of animals without compromising the welfare would lead towards sustainable animal production. Careful attention adopting technological interventions would result to efficient performance and guarantees profit and sustainability. In the tropical environment, the effect of heat stress, food and water scarcity during summer affects the reproduction performance in most livestock species. Low expression of estrus, poor libido, incidence of abortion especially during prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and embryonic death are among the problems that compromised reproductive efficiency. Through advance reproductive biotechnologies and management innovations and interventions, these problems could be controlled. The application of reproductive biotechnology tools such as estrus synchronization (ES), artificial insemination (AI), embryo transfer (ET) through multiple ovulation and in vivo collection of embryos, in-vitro embryo production (IVEP) and cryopreservation, somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) to produce the desired breed and sex of animal, and other reproductive biotechnologies that enhances reproduction potential are important innovations that can address specific needs and purpose for animal reproduction. The strategies, innovations, and important practices in the application of these reproductive tools and interventions are presented and discussed considering the welfare of the animals for a sustainable livestock production in a tropical environment.
Ethnopharmacological relevance
Ruta genus is constituted by ten species, of which the most commonly described are R. chalepensis and R. graveolens. Ruta plants are perennial shrubs belonging to the family Rutaceae, which are traditionally used in folk medicine, since ancient times mostly for the treatment of various ailments of the womb.
Aim of the study
To provide a review of the different uses of Ruta species in traditional medicine, as well as, on their multifactorial biological and pharmacological properties.
Material and methods
A search of the literature on genus Ruta and Ruta species was performed using various scientific databases and search engines and the information of articles were reviewed and compiled.
Results
Different parts of the plants belonging to Ruta genus are used in folk medicine to treat a wide range of different diseases. The principal use of these is in gynaecological field, but the treatment of pain, fever, nausea, inflammation, infections, nervous disorders, among others, are also described. These plants have been used to fertility regulation, as anti-fertility agent, to control menstrual flux and bleedings, as abortifacient and as contraceptive. The phytochemical composition of these plants consists mainly in essential oil (EO), but phenolic compounds were also reported, like coumarins and flavonoids, as well as alkaloids. Ruta species products like extracts and EOs have shown broad pharmacological activities, such as antimicrobial and antifungal activities, as well as, antiviral and antiparasitic. Moreover, Ruta plants products present antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-diabetic activities and demonstrated contraceptive and abortifacient effects. These plants were also tested to be used for non-therapeutic approaches, as bio-insecticides in the control of different insect pests showing to be able to reduce infestation.
Conclusions
Ruta species could be a potential source of natural products with biological activities. Ruta extracts, essential oils and isolated compounds have shown a diverse potential for use in the treatment of different diseases, as well as, for pests control, contributing to the valorisation of these plants. Nonetheless, this review indicates that more studies are needed to demonstrate the full potential of Ruta species, and to further explore the toxicology and safety of these plants.
Self-managed abortion, when a person performs their own abortion without clinical supervision, is a model of abortion care used across a range of settings. To provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available literature on self-managed abortion, we conducted a systematic search for peer-reviewed research in April 2019 in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Popline, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, Scielo, and Redalyc. We included studies that had a research question focused on self-managed abortion; and were published in English or Spanish. The combined search returned 7167 studies; after screening, 99 studies were included in the analysis. Included studies reported on methods, procurement, characteristics of those who self-managed, effectiveness, safety, reasons for self-managed abortion, and emotional and physical experiences. Numerous abortion methods were reported, most frequently abortion with pills and herbs. Studies reporting on self-managed medication abortion reported high-levels of effectiveness. We identify gaps in the research, and make recommendations to address those gaps.
This chapter attempts to summarise and tabulate many of the better known adverse toxicological and drug–drug interactional effects of nutraceuticals and botanical supplements. Because of the large scope of these subjects, an extensive literature list is provided in the “References” section of the chapter. The safety properties of nutraceuticals are, in general, poorly studied, and there is absolutely no reason to assume that these products are “safe” for use in humans or animals despite claims of longstanding cultural or dietary use. Given this context it is possible that many problems currently go unrecognised and the burden of adverse effects may be substantially underestimated. This situation will likely continue until a shift towards a regime premarket regulatory approval with mandatory post-market pharmacovigilance is applied in higher-risk and/or data-poor substances.
Abortion is a fertility regulation practice that women use in the absence of contraception or when contraceptives fail. Laws regulating this practice in different countries range from allowing it on request to restrictive access and even total prohibition. Where the right to abortion is established, it is frequently challenged. Debates around legalization are centred on the rights of women, the rights of the embryo, and the health consequences of unsafe abortions. But whether abortion is legal or prohibited, women around the world resort to it, with great disparities in the intensity of the practice and its health and social consequences. Levels of safety of abortions varies widely between countries and regions (safe, less safe, and least safe). They have improved with the spread of medical abortion, particularly in countries with legal limits on access, where they replace riskier methods. The available data are highly heterogeneous: From healthcare statistics in countries where abortion is legal, to survey data of varying levels of completeness, and including the use of sophisticated methods to estimate levels in countries where legal access is restricted.
Hypertension is the most important modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular, cerebrovas-cular, and renal diseases which are together among the most frequent causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. Despite the availability of a wide range of effective medicines, many individuals suffering from hypertension use plant-derived preparations for treating their disease. The choice for these alternatives is often associated with the closer relationship of such approaches to specific social, cultural, and religious perceptions about health and disease. However, in most cases, the scientific evidence for clinical efficacy of such medications is scant. The Republic of Suriname is a middle-income country in South America with a relatively high prevalence of hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. This country harbors descendants of all continents, all of whom have preserved their cultural customs including their ethnopharmacological traditions. As a result, many Surinamese are inclined to treat their diseases including hypertension as they have done for centuries, that is, with plant-based preparations. This chapter has compiled the plants used for treating hypertension in Suriname; extensively evaluates 15 commonly used plants for potential efficacy on the basis of available phytochemical, mechanistic, pre-clinical, and clinical literature data; and closes with conclusions about their potential usefulness against the disease.
Self-medication during pregnancy represents a serious threat for mother and child health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and the factors associated with self-medication among Mexican women living in the central region of Mexico. This is a descriptive interview-study of 1798 pregnant women or women who were pregnant no more than 3 years ago, when the interview was carried out. Data analysis was carried out with chi-square analysis and odds ratio. The prevalence of self-medication (allopathic drugs, medicinal plants, and other products, including vitamins, food supplements, among others) was 21.9%. The factors associated (p < 0.05) with self-medication were: higher education (college and postgraduate), smoking, and consumption of alcohol. Smoking was the strongest factor (OR: 2.536; 1.46–4.42) associated to self-medication during pregnancy, followed by consumption of alcohol (OR: 2.06; 1.38–3.08), and higher education (OR: 1.607; 1.18–2.19). Medicinal plant consumption was associated with nausea, constipation, migraine, and cold (p < 0.05), whereas he self-medication of allopathy was associated with gastritis and migraine (p < 0.05). Self-medication was influenced mainly by a relative or friend, who recommended the use of herbal medicine/allopathic medication. Two of the most common medicinal plants (arnica and ruda) here informed are reported to induce abortion or toxicity during pregnancy. The findings showed that self-medication (medicinal plants and allopathic medication) is a common practice among pregnant women from central Mexico. Adequate counselling of pregnant women by healthcare professionals about the potential risks of self-medication with herbal medicine and allopathic drugs during pregnancy is strongly warranted.
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
The species Acmella oleracea (L.) R.K. Jansen (Asteraceae), popularly known as jambú, is marketed in fairs as a female aphrodisiac and has several pharmacological activities already confirmed, among them the sexual stimulant action. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the oral administration of the hydroethanolic extract of A. oleracea flowers (EHAo) on wistar rats during the pre-mating, mating, and pre-implantation period.
Material and methods:
During the treatment period, measurements of feed intake, water intake, weight, estrous cycle, behavior, reproductive parameters, biochemical parameters, hematological parameters, and histopathology of ovaries were performed daily.
Results:
In the gas chromatography analysis - mass spectrometry characterization, the compound (2E, 6Z, 8E) -N-isobutyldeca-2,6,8-trienamide (spilanthol) was detected as the majority compound at the 84% concentration. In the conditions of this study, EHAo did not cause maternal toxicity. However, in the estrous cycle, the frequency of the Proestrous (P) and Estrous (E) phase was significantly increased with the doses of 88.91 and 444.57mg/kg of the EHAo in relation to the control. On the other hand, the metaestrous (M) and diestrous (D) phases showed a significant reduction in their frequency in the groups treated with EHAo. Water intake increased significantly (p < 0.01), as well as the triglyceride levels, the total cholesterol and fractions (p < 0.05), and the percentage of neutrophils (p <0.05).
Conclusion:
It is concluded, therefore, that the treatment with EHAo, which is one of the forms popularly used, is safe in the concentrations and time of treatment studied as it is able to influence the estrous cycle without altering folliculogenesis and fertility.
Herbal supplements are a significant source of drug-drug interactions (DDIs), herb-drug interactions, and hepatotoxicity. Cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes metabolize a large number of FDA-approved pharmaceuticals and herbal supplements. This metabolism of pharmaceuticals and supplements can be augmented by concomitant use of either pharmaceuticals or supplements. The xenobiotic receptors constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and the pregnane X receptor (PXR) can respond to xenobiotics by increasing the expression of a large number of genes that are involved in the metabolism of xenobiotics, including CYP450s. Conversely, but not exclusively, many xenobiotics can inhibit the activity of CYP450s. Induction of the expression or inhibition of the activity of CYP450s can result in DDIs and toxicity. Currently, the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration does not require the investigation of the interactions of herbal supplements and CYP450s. This review provides a summary of herbal supplements that inhibit CYP450s, induce the expression of CYP450s, and/or whose toxicity is mediated by CYP450s.
Herbal infusions are consumed worldwide thanks to their “natural” beneficial effects, also due to the presence of alkaloids, although these compounds can have poisonous effects. A method combining online solid-phase purification with high resolution mass spectrometry was used to define the alkaloid profiles of 117 herbs and 7 commercial blends. 41 alkaloids were quantified in reference to analytical standards, while the presence of a further 116 was confirmed on the basis of accurate mass, retention time and fragmentation profile. The targeted study showed that 52% of herbs and 42% of commercial blends contained at least one alkaloid, and pyrrolizidines were the most commonly present (26% of samples), with concentrations generally ranging from the quantification limit to roughly 100 μg kg-1. Moreover, a homemade infusion was studied, finding on average 45% and 6% lower extraction for pyrrolizidine and steroidal alkaloids, respectively. Nevertheless, the migration of pyrrolizidines was confirmed. The study confirmed the frequent presence, natural or accidental, of alkaloids in commercial infusion herbs, highlighting the urgent need for routine and accurate controls.
Background
Sexual violence has been prevalent throughout the armed conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Research on sexual violence-related pregnancies (SVRPs) and pregnancy termination in eastern DRC, a context with high prevalence of sexual violence, high maternal mortality, and restrictive abortion laws, is scant but crucial to improving the overall health of women in the DRC. Understanding women’s perceptions and experiences related to an SVRP, and in particular to pregnancy termination in this context, is critical for developing effective, targeted programming.
Methods
Respondent-driven sampling (RDS) was used to recruit two subgroups of women reporting SVRPs, 1) women raising a child from an SVRP (parenting group) and 2) women who had terminated an SVRP (termination group), in Bukavu, DRC in 2012. Semi-structured qualitative interviews on pregnancy history and outcomes were conducted with a systematically selected sub-group of women recruited through RDS methodology. Interview responses were translated, transcribed and uploaded to the qualitative data analysis software Dedoose. Thematic content analysis, complemented by the constant comparative technique from grounded theory, was subsequently used as the analytic approach for data analysis.
Results
Fifty-five qualitative interviews (38 parenting group and 17 termination group) were completed. The majority of women in the termination group reported using traditional herbs to terminate the SVRP, which they often obtained on their own or through family, friends and traditional healers; whereas women in the parenting group reported ongoing pregnancies after attempting pregnancy termination with herbal medications. Three women in the termination group reported accessing services in a health center. Almost half of the women in the parenting group cited fear of death from termination as a reason for continuing the pregnancy. Other women in the parenting group contemplated pregnancy termination, but did not know where to access services. Potential legal ramifications and religious beliefs also influenced access to services.
Conclusions
Women in this study had limited access to evidence-based safe abortion care and faced potential consequences from unsafe abortion, including increased morbidity and mortality. Increased access to reproductive health services, particularly safe, evidence-based abortion services, is paramount for women with SVRPs in eastern DRC and other conflict-affected regions.
The chemical composition and the antioxidant activity of the volatile fraction of a naturalized population of parsley [Petroselinum crispum (Mill) Nyman] were assessed and compared in a field trial with those of three commercial cultivars. Volatile oils extracted from the leaves were analysed by GC/FID and GC/MS. A total of twenty compounds were detected in all accessions, being the most representatives the terpenes 1,3,8-p-mentathriene and β-phellandrene and the phenylpropanoid myristicin. The naturalized population differed from the cultivars for the highest yield of volatile oil, which was characterized by the absence of apiole, a lower content of myristicin and the highest amount of 1,3,8-p-mentathriene. The antioxidant activity of the essential oil from the evaluated accessions was very low. Due to its essential oil yield and composition, the naturalized population could be taken into consideration for the starting of a breeding programme.
Garcinia mangostana,
popularly known as “mangosteen fruit,” originates from Southeast Asia and came to Brazil about 80 years ago where it mainly grows in the states of Pará and Bahia. Although mangosteen or its extracts have been used for ages in Asian folk medicine, data on its potential genotoxicity is missing. We, therefore, evaluated genotoxicity/mutagenicity of hydroethanolic mangosteen extract [HEGM, 10 to 640
μ
g/mL] in established test assays (Comet assay, micronucleus test, and
Salmonella
/microsome test). In the Comet assay, HEGM-exposed human leukocytes showed no DNA damage. No significant HEGM-induced mutation in TA98 and TA100 strains of
Salmonella typhimurium
(with or without metabolic activation) was observed and HEGM-exposed human lymphocytes had no increase of micronuclei. However, HEGM suggested exposure concentration-dependent antigenotoxic potential in leukocytes and antioxidant potential in the yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. HEGM preloading effectively protected against H
2
O
2
-induced DNA damage in leukocytes (Comet assay). Preloading of yeast with HEGM for up to 4 h significantly protected the cells from lethality of chronic H
2
O
2
-exposure, as expressed in better survival. Absence of genotoxicity and demonstration of an antigenotoxic and antioxidant potential suggest that HEGM or some substances contained in it may hold promise for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical application.
Background and purpose: Ruta Graveolens (RG) commonly called sudab, has been known as a medicinal plant since ancient times. Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-androgenic, and anti-fertility activities are amongst the medicinal properties of RG. The present study investigated the antifertility effects of RG and in-vitro embryo development in female mice.
Background: A number of studies on reproduction have mentioned Origanum Vulgare extract's ability to reduce mortality rates and improve fertility rates. However, other studies have suggested that it is possible to use Origanum Vulgare extract to induce abortion. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different doses of Origanum Vulgare on embryo survival and macroscopic abnormalities in mice. Methods: In this study, 24 mice Balb/c female weighting approximately 25-30 g were divided into 4 groups. Origanum Vulgare extract was prepared; different concentrations (2.5, 12.5, and 25 mg in 0.25 ml distilled water) were administered, by oral gavage, to three experimental groups of mice between day 6 (starting gastrulation) until day 15 of pregnancy (end of organogenesis). The control group consisted of six mice that received 0.25 ml of distilled water daily. On day 16 of study, pregnant mice were anesthetized by chloroform and fetuses were removed and stained with Alcian Blue, Alizarin Red s and microwave irradiation. Morphological and skeletal abnormalities were investigated by light and stereomicroscopes. Results: The results of this study showed that high doses of the Origanum Vulgare extract significantly decreased the mean number of embryos (10*0.5, P>0.05), mean number of live embryos (7*0.5, P>0.05) in each mouse and resulted in significant reduction in mean weight(1184±8 mg, P>0.05) and crown-rump length(11.9±0.23 mm, P>0.05) and the overall size of fetuses compared to control group, whereas there was no significant difference between the groups receiving low dose of Origanum Vulgare extract with control group. In addition, under the effect of the Origanum Vulgare extract the subcutaneous bleeding seemed (2*0.1, P>0.05) significantly more frequent compared to the control group. Conclusion: Origanum Vulgare extract did not have any positive effect on fetal development; and high dosages led to an increased incidence rate of abortion and fetal malformations in the fetuses of women who received it.
Objective: Ethno-botanical survey was conducted in the remote hills, forests and rural areas of Tripura, a diversified ethnic people rich state of North-Eastern India for gathering information about traditional method of birth control. Methods: Semi-structured questionnaire was used during the interview with the informants having traditional botanical knowledge. Use of medicinal plants were documented using an interview datasheet mentioning detailed information of the informants and vernacular names, parts used, method of preparation and administration modes of botanicals. Finally, collected samples of botanicals, prepared herbarium, identified and scientific names were confirmed by consulting reference herbarium specimen available in Assam University, Silchar. Results: A total of 55 ethnomedicinal plants belonging to 49 genera and 42 families have been documented having antifertility property. Apocynaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Combretaceae, Fabaceae were found to be the dominant families of medicinal plants used for fertility regulation. This paper represents detailed profile of each plant including scientific name, family, common name, parts used, activities, mode of preparation and dosage. While comparing the established literature it is interestingly recorded that antifertility activity of 10 plants have been reported for the first time. Conclusion: Conservation of the traditional informations should be given utmost importance in this region to prevent the rapid loss of ethnobotanical wealth.
The fractions (F) 3 and 4 derived from the root extract of Andrographis paniculata Wall. ex Nees were used in the present investigation to study the contraceptive action of the plant on albino rats. Rats were treated with 500 mg/kg body weight/day of fraction 3 and 4 of the extract for a period of 48 days. The total body and ovary weight, levels of hormones, such as estrogen, LH, FSH and progesterone, histological changes in the ovary and uterus were observed. There was no remarkable change in total body weight of A. paniculata treated rats, whereas the size of the ovary was reduced in treated rats as compared to control. The levels of LH, FSH, estrogen and progesterone were found to be raised in treated groups when compared with control and there were remarkable changes noted in the histology of ovary and uterus of experimental rats. The obtained results suggest that the presence of active principle in the fractions 3 and 4 of A. paniculata might be responsible for the contraceptive efficacy of the plant extract. These alterations are possibly due to the interference of secondary metabolites of the plant on the physiology of the sexual cycle of female rats.
Ruta chalepensis, is used, in traditional medicine, as emmenagogue, abortive, and analgesic. We analyzed, in male Wistar rats, the effects of the chronic intake of an infusion of Ruta chalepensis (20 g/L) on the vasomotor responses of, either intact or endothelium-denuded aortic rings, to phenylephrine or carbachol. Only in rings with endothelium significant effects were observed. The infusion induced a leftward shift of the concentration-response curve to phenylephrine and an increase in maximal tension development. These effects were abolished by indomethacin. In these rings, inhibiting the synthesis of nitric oxide, in the presence of indomethacin, induced a leftward shift of the concentration response curve to phenylephrine, as well as an increase in maximal tension. These results suggest that the chronic ingestion of a Ruta chalepensis infusion induces an endothelium dependent increase in the synthesis/release of cyclooxygenase-dependent vasoconstrictor prostanoids, and an increase in the basal synthesis/release of nitric oxide. © 2011 Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas.
PENNYROYAL oil has been used in folklore medicine for many years as an abortifacient and as a means to induce menstruation.1 Herbal medicine books currently in health food stores mention its use as an abortifacient and recommend its use for various minor ailments. We report two recent cases of pennyroyal oil ingestion for the purpose of abortion. One of these cases resulted in shock, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), massive hepatic nercrosis, and death.Report of Cases
Case 1.—
An 18-year-old girl came to the Denver General Hospital emergency department on Nov 15,1978, with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and vascilating between lethargy and agitation. She gave a history of having ingested two one-half ounce bottles of pennyroyal oil two hours earlier to abort a suspected pregnancy. She was very depressed, and the ingestion could also have been a suicide attempt. She had drunk pennyroyal tea made from the leaves of
Women have used herbal remedies to attempt to induce abortion for as long as unwanted pregnancies have occurred. Each culture seems to have its own particular concoction. In Mexico, cottonroot bark is used; in India pulsatilla is used; and in the United States, rue, apiol, cohosh, sage, and pennyroyal are mentioned in books on herbal medicine.
In a recent issue of The Journal, Sullivan et al (242:2873, 1979) at the Denver Poison Control Center describe the clinical, toxicological, and pathological aspects of pennyroyal oil intoxication in two women who self-administered the preparation to induce abortion; during the epidemiologic investigation of these episodes, a third case of pennyroyal oil intoxication was discovered.1 These reports have sparked widespread attention on home remedies as abortifacients. This public interest is not surprising, since two fashionable topics were juxtaposed: induced abortion and herbal medicine.
These reports also point out important public health issues beyond
An abortifacient used in ancient Rome is causing present-day problems.
It is the oil of a plant known as the pennyroyal, mosquito, or squawmint (Mentha pulegium). Public health officials say pennyroyal oil has been involved in three recent poisonings in Colorado, one of which was fatal.
The plant is found from Canada to Florida and at least as far west as Nebraska. Pennyroyal oil is related to turpentine and is sometimes marketed as an insect repellent or herbal fragrance. It has been used for at least 2,000 years. While its action is believed to involve irritation of the uterus and bladder, triggering reflex contractions, some users contend that, taken as an herbal tea, pennyroyal is calming and diaphoretic and induces menses. There is, however, no documentation that it can induce abortion at other than near-lethal dosage.
Julian Gold, MD, told Epidemic Intelligence Service colleagues at a recent Atlanta conference that
The furanoacridone alkaloid isogravacridonchlorine has been isolated from the roots of Ruta graveolens, the structure was elucidated by spectroscopic means. Its mutagenic activity and mode of action was characterized without as well as with metabolic activation using different Salmonella typhimurium strains.
Chloroform extracts of the root, stem and leaf of Ruta graveolens L. showed significant anti-fertility activity in rats when administered intragastrically on days 1-10 post-coitum. Fractionation of the extracts led to the isolation of chalepensin as the active component with some toxicity. Time-dosing experiments demonstrated that chalepensin acts at the early stages of pregnancy. It is not clear at this stage if the anti-fertility effect is a direct manifestation of chalepensin toxicity.
PIP
3 cases of severe intoxication through the use of pennyroyal oil as an abortifacient agent are reported. The women, all residents in the Denver area, probably acted independently and did not seek advice from a common source. The women's nonuse of the local physician was not due to ignorance or nonavailability of abortion services, but seems to be part of a relatively widespread move away from conventional medicine. Needless to say, herbal preparation can be very harmful, and the public should be continually educated regarding the most popular forms of self-treatment.
Plantas Silvestres y de Cultivo: Riesgo de Intoxicación Para el Hombre
- J Pronczuk
- A Laborde
Guía taxonómica de plantas que se comercializan como medicinales en Uruguay, primera contribución
- H Priore
- L Carpiuc
- E Alonso
- Mj Bassagoda