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Abstract

Abstract Ethnopharmacological relevance ‘Ubtan’ is a traditional herbal formulation in the Indian system of medicine being used in India and its subcontinent for a long time. Several commercial skin care formulations are marketed throughout this region as the name of Ubtan. Therefore, it is worthwhile to evaluate Ubtan in respect of its efficacy as skin care formulation. Aim of the study The present study was designed for the preparation of Ubtan and standardization through the chromatographic techniques by using suitable phyto-markers. Further, its antioxidant, sun protection factor (SPF) and anti-tyrosinase potential have been explored. Materials and methods Four in-house formulations (UF-1, UF-2, UF-3 and UF-4) were prepared by mixing a varied quantity of each powdered plants, i.e. turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) and sandalwood (Santalum album L.). Optimization of the formulations was made by evaluating its biological activity through in vitro assay. Evaluation of physicochemical properties of the optimized formulation (UF-1) has been carried out by analysis of pH, flow properties and stability. Moreover, RP-HPLC (reverse phase - high performance liquid chromatography) and HPTLC (high performance thin layer chromatography) standardization of UF-1 was performed for its quantitative and qualitative analysis. Results Ubtan formulations (UF-1to UF-4) showed free radical scavenging and ferric reducing potential. It may be due to its high phenolic and flavonoid content. Statistically, significant Pearson's correlation (r) was confirmed the positive correlation between phenolic content and SPF of the formulations. The tyrosinase inhibition study indicated that the formulations showed both diphenolase and monophenolase inhibitory activity. Among four formulations, UF-1 showed notable biological activity (p< 0.05). The content of curcumin and ascorbic acid was found to be 1.6% and 2.1% w/w respectively in UF-1 through RP-HPLC estimation. Physiochemical properties of the UF-1 exhibited good flow rate and aqueous solubility. From the stability studies, it can be anticipated that the UF-1 was stable at 40 °C for longer periods. Microbial load count and heavy metal content (lead-Pb, arsenic-As, mercury-Hg and cadmium-Cd) of the formulation was also within the permissible limit of a pharmacopeial standard. Conclusion This scientific exploration helps to set the quality and safety standard of traditional cosmetic formulation, Ubtan and its further use as an herbal skin care product.

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... The inoculated plates were then placed within an incubator at 37°C for a period of 24 h. Following the incubation period, the plates were carefully removed, and the presence of microbial growth was scrutinized in comparison to the control (Biswas et al., 2016). ...
... The cream exhibited a pale green color, which is likely due to the presence of Spirulina platensis extract. The texture was smooth, which is crucial for enhancing consumer sensory experience and ensuring uniform application (Biswas et al., 2016). The cream was found to be odorless, making it suitable for consumers with a sensitive olfactory system. ...
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This study provided a thorough evaluation of a Spirulina platensis extract-infused cream, assessing its physical properties, stability, microbial safety, spreadability, irritancy, moisture retention, and bioactive potential. The cream exhibited highly desirable attributes, making it a promising candidate for cosmetics, meeting industry standards. It displayed excellent spreadability, low irritancy, and minimal moisture absorption, indicating stability. Additionally, the cream demonstrated potent antioxidant properties and concentration-dependent antityrosinase activity, suggesting it could address pigmentation concerns. Enzyme kinetics revealed complex interactions, potentially influenced by rich biochemical composition, including phycocyanin. Crucially, the cream also demonstrated the ability to prevent methylglyoxal (MG)-induced glycation in proteins by 58.98% and in pBR322 plasmid by 30.48%. These findings underscore potential of S. platensis as a versatile cosmetic ingredient, offering physical excellence, stability, bioactive properties, and glycation inhibition capabilities. This study lays the foundation for multifaceted utility of the cyanobacterial extract in cosmetics and skincare products.
... The estimation of total phenolic and flavonoid content of four fractions obtained from C. grandis fruit was performed based on the earlier method described from our laboratory with some modification (Biswas et al., 2016). The samples were prepared with methanol at the concentration of 1 mg/ml. ...
... The total flavonoids content (TFC) was also determined by spectrophotometric assay (Biswas et al., 2016). The samples were prepared in a different concentration range (10-100 μg/ml) with methanol. ...
... The antioxidant activities of the fractions of C. grandis fruits were evaluated using DPPH free radical scavenging assay based on the method developed in our laboratory (Biswas et al., 2016). In this assay, 100 μl of both the sample and DPPH solution (0.2 mg/ml) was mixed in a 96-well microplate and allowed to stand in the dark at room temperature for 10 min. ...
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Coccinia grandis is an important food crop of the Cucurbitaceae family, widely used for culinary purposes in India. It is reported to possess hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities. The current study was aimed to explore the inhibition kinetics as well as major constituents of the active fraction of C. grandis against α-glucosidase. The kinetic study was performed through spectrophotometric assay, with p-nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside as a substrate with varying concentrations. An in vitro antioxidant study was performed by DPPH assay. In addition, UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis was carried out for metabolite profiling of the bioactive fraction of C. grandis. The results showed that the difference between the α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the ethyl acetate fraction of C. grandis (EFCG) (IC 50 2.43 ± 0.27 mg/ml), and standard inhibitor, acarbose (2.08 ± 0.19 mg/ml), was not statistically significant at a P-value of 0.05. The enzyme kinetics confirmed the inhibition mode in a mixed manner. The EFCG also showed the highest antioxidant activity (101.74 ± 1.95 μg/ml) among all of the fractions. A significant correlation between antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of EFCG was observed. The LC-QTOF-MS study of the EFCG putatively identified 35 metabolites, which may be responsible for its antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitory properties. Thus, C. grandis fruits can serve as a functional food to address diabetes-related disorders associated with α-glucosidase.
... Moreover, in presence of surfactant the volume of bubble increases with fast rate at the same pressure [2, 6 -7]. Ubtan is a semisolid, used for the bathing and also in cosmetics to remove the dirt particles and enhances the luster of the body [8]. ...
... A molecule inside the liquid attracts the other surrounded molecules and vice versa. All molecules inside liquid are at equilibrium with neutral resultant forces [8][9]. Moreover, the surface molecules are only attracted from the liquid side and the lateral direction. ...
... This obtained value is similar to the standard value 72 dyne/cm at 20 oC [2][3]7]. The decrease in values of surface tension might be due to the change in angle of contact of the water molecules with the glass surface of the capillary [4,[8][9][10]. This might be due to the van der waals forces and the result helps to predict the values of surface tension at the required temperature. ...
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... The estimation of total phenolic and flavonoid content of aqueous ethanol extract of MCF and partitioned fractions was performed based on the earlier method described from our laboratory with some modification (Biswas, Mukherjee, Kar, et al., 2016). The samples were prepared with methanol at the concentration 1 mg/mL. ...
... The total flavonoids content (TFC) was also determined by spectrophotometric assay (Biswas, Mukherjee, Kar, et al., 2016). ...
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... Total phenolic and flavonoid content of the aqueous ethanol extract of L. acutangula fruits and the subsequent three partitioned fractions was determined using a previously described method with some modification. 18 The sample was prepared by weighing approximately 1 mg of each fraction, dissolved in 1 mL of methanol followed by filtration with 0.45 μm syringe filter to get a concentration of 1 mg/mL. The reaction mixture was prepared by mixing the sample (18 μL), 10% Folin-Ciocalteu's reagent (90 μL) and 7.5% sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO 3 ) (90 μL). ...
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Article
Introduction Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb, commonly known as ridge gourd (cucurbitaceae), is a common vegetable cultivated in India. It is also a well‐used medicinal plant in Indian traditional medicine. Objectives To analyse the phenolics content of the most potent carbonic anhydrase‐inhibiting fraction from an extract of L. acutangula. Materials and Methods An aqueous ethanol extract of dried fruits of L. acutangula was successively fractionated into petroleum ether, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate. The extract and subsequent fractions were assessed for carbonic anhydrase‐inhibitory activity and the enzyme inhibition kinetics were determined for the most active fraction. Total phenolic and flavonoid content of the extract and subsequent fractions were determined spectrophotometrically. Ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐QTOF‐MS) analysis was used to tentatively identify the major phenolics in the most active fraction. Results The concentration of total phenolics and total flavonoids in the extract and each fraction thereof correlated with the level of carbonic anhydrase inhibition activity. The ethyl acetate fraction of the aqueous ethanol extract of L. acutangula had the highest carbonic anhydrase inhibition activity. The enzyme kinetics analysis indicated a mixed mode of inhibition. UPLC‐QTOF‐MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction indicated a number of phenolic acids, hydroxycoumarins, flavones, flavanones, and flavonoids. Conclusion The correlation of total phenolic content with carbonic anhydrase inhibition suggested further research that might confirm that phenolic compounds of L. acutangula offer potential therapeutic benefits against carbonic anhydrase‐related disorders.
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... Their molecular structure features aromatic rings and double bonds, conferring absorption across the entire UV spectrum. Among the ideal candidates, quercetin and especially rutin offer both high antioxidant activity and, crucially, high UV absorption potential, reaching SPFs above 35, [70] although total polyphenols extracted from some leaves and plants can achieve SPF values above 20 [71]. The traditional herbal formulation, Ubtan, based on different plant seeds (mainly flavonoids), can reach SPF values above 30 [72]. ...
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Topical sunscreen application is one of the most important photoprotection tool to prevent sun damaging effects in human skin at the short and long term. Although its efficacy and cosmeticity have significantly improved in recent years, a better understanding of the biological and clinical effects of longer wavelength radiation, such as long ultraviolet A (UVA I) and blue light, has driven scientists and companies to search for effective and safe filters and substances to protect against these newly identified forms of radiation. New technologies have sought to imbue sunscreen with novel properties, such as the reduction of calorific radiation. Cutaneous penetration by sunscreens can also be reduced using hydrogels or nanocrystals that envelop the filters, or by binding filters to nanocarriers such as alginate microparticles, cyclodextrins, and methacrylate polymers. Finally, researchers have looked to nature as a source of healthier products, such as plant products (e.g., mycosporines, scytonemin, and various flavonoids) and even fungal and bacterial melanin, which could potentially be used as substitutes or enhancers of current filters. Graphical abstract
... Free radical scavenging activity of the extracts was performed by the DPPH method with minor modification [27,37]. In this test, 100 μl of sample and 0.2 mg/ml DPPH solutions were combined in a 96-well microplate and allowed to stand at room temperature for 10 min. ...
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The present study was aimed to investigate the role of Dillenia indica L. bark extracts and their kinetics of inhibition against the tyrosinase enzyme. The kinetics study of various concentrations of the extracts was executed by spectrophotometric assay. Out of four extracts, only hydro-ethanolic extract of D. indica barks (HEEBDI) showed the maximum radical scavenging capacity (36.73 ± 1.65 μg/ml) compared to ascorbic acid. Additionally, HEEBDI scavenging capacity and tyrosinase inhibitory properties showed a significant correlation. In HEEBDI, fifteen marker compounds were identified by LC-QTOF-MS method. The tyrosinase inhibitory activity of HEEBDI (IC50 19.32 ± 0.57 μg/ml) showed a significant value compared to kojic acid (IC50 22.08 ± 0.19 μg/ml). The inhibitory mechanism was confirmed in a mixed manner by enzyme kinetics. With minimal conformational energy, betulinic acid and kaempferol bind to the tyrosinase enzyme (PDB ID: 2y9x) as proved by their respective docking score and binding interaction.
... Biswas, R. reported that the traditional herbal formulation, Ubtan, can be developed by mixing seeds from C. arietinum (chickpea), rhizomes from C. longa (turmeric) and heartwood from S. album (sandalwood) along with other ingredients in rational amounts. Moreover, the study reported the definite correlation between chemical phenolic content and SPF of the formulations [36]. The SPF values of UF-1, UF-2, UF-3 and UF4 were found to be 32.64, ...
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Artificial sunscreens are already gaining traction in order to protect the skin from sunburns, photoaging and photocarcinogenesis. However, the efficacy and safety of most artificial sunscreen constituents are hindered by their photostability, toxicity and damage to marine ecosystems. Natural selection and evolution have ensured that plants and animals have developed effective protective mechanisms against the deleterious side effects of oxidative stress and ultraviolet radiation (UV). Hence, natural antioxidants such as sun blockers are drawing considerable attention. The exact mechanism by which natural components act as sunscreen molecules has not been clearly established. However, conjugated π system is reported to play an important role in protecting the vital genetic material within the organism. Compared to artificial sunscreens, natural sunscreens with strong UV absorptive capacities are largely limited by low specific extinction value and by their inability to spread in large-scale sunscreen cosmetic applications. Previous studies have documented that natural components exert their photoprotective effects (such as improved skin elasticity and hydration, skin texture, and wrinkles) through their antioxidant effects, and through the regulation of UV-induced skin inflammation, barrier impairment and aging. This review focuses on natural antioxidant topical formulations with sun protection factor (SPF). Lignin, melanin, silymarin and other ingredients have been added to high sun protection nature sunscreens without any physical or chemical UV filters. This paper also provides a reference for adopting novel technical measures (extracting high content components, changing the type of solution, optimizing formulation, applying Nano technology, et al) to design and prepare nature sunscreen formulations equated with commercial sunscreen formulations. Another strategy is to add natural antioxidants from plants, animals, microorganisms and marine organisms as special enhancer or modifier ingredients to reinforce SPF values. Although the photoprotective effects of natural components have been established, their deleterious side effects have not been elucidated.
... In response to this matter, one of the strategies adopted to stabilise the abnormal rise in blood glucose is the inhibition of the enzyme known as α-glucosidase that is responsible for both the release and absorption of free glucose into the blood system. Nevertheless, it is crucial to note that the use of most drugs in the treatment of DM and other inflammatory-related diseases have been identified with side effects (Biswas et al., 2016). A considerable amount of studies has reported the relationship between oxidative stress, DM, and inflammation by stating that the antioxidants can significantly inhibit or delay the oxidation process of substances (Prabhakar, 2013). ...
... The total phenol content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) was estimated according to the method reported earlier from our laboratory with some modification. 17 The TPC was calculated as milligrams of gallic acid equivalent (GAE) per gram of the sample. The TFC was calculated as milligrams of quercetin equivalents (QE) per gram in the sample. ...
Article
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... Therefore, many Indian formulas have been studied in recent years. Ubtan, a traditional formula, was reported to have anti-tyrosinase and antioxidant effects (Biswas et al., 2016). (The composition of formulas showed in Table 1.) ...
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... Furthermore, heavy metals were evaluated by the (i.e., Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy) for its appraisal of security for topical application [55]. ...
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Human beings are obsessed with looking beautiful. Hence, various beauty products have been in use to look charming and young. Herbal ingredients are popular worldwide for use in cosmetics. The demand for herbal cosmetic is growing in the world market and is an invaluable gift of nature. Herbal skin cosmetics are formulated using different herbal active ingredients, which are further incorporated in cosmetic base to nourish and cure various skin ailments. Herbal cosmetics are natural and are found to be safe to use as compared to chemical-based cosmetics. Herbal formulations have always attracted considerable attention because they are free from all the harmful synthetic chemicals which otherwise may prove to be toxic to the skin. The bioactive ingredients from plants include antioxidants, vitamins, essential oils, tannins, alkaloids, dyes, carbohydrates, and terpenoids, which are used as cosmetics for care of skin, body, and its other parts. The herbal cosmetics which are used on a daily basis, include herbal cream, face wash, lip balm, herbal conditioners, herbal soap, and herbal shampoo. Cosmetics based on herbal ingredients possess desirable physiological activity such as smoothing appearance, healing, enhancing, and conditioning properties. The cosmetic industry is now focusing on this growing segment with an enormous scope of manifold expansion in coming years. Various herbal active ingredients which are particularly used for skincare are being discussed thoroughly in the current review.
... To ensure the content uniformity of phytoconstituents across batches in a polyherbal formulation, single or multiple marker compounds are used. Numerous studies reported the use of chromatographic fingerprinting as a potential tool for standardizing complex polyherbal formulations [12][13][14][15] . The chromatographic fingerprinting for standardization of herbal formulations is an approved modern analytical technique by the USFDA and the WHO [16,17] . ...
... To ensure the content uniformity of phytoconstituents across batches in a polyherbal formulation, single or multiple marker compounds are used. Numerous studies reported the use of chromatographic fingerprinting as a potential tool for standardizing complex polyherbal formulations [12][13][14][15] . The chromatographic fingerprinting for standardization of herbal formulations is an approved modern analytical technique by the USFDA and the WHO [16,17] . ...
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Non-classical herbal formulations have gained momentum in the recent past. These formulations, however, have not been well integrated with the modern system of medicine in most of the countries in the world. This is due to the lack of enough scientific evidence pertaining to its long-term safety and efficacy. Besides, the paucity of authentic monographs on the impurity profiling, standardization protocols, lack of guideline on the fixed-dose combinations and absence of programmed pharmacovigilance plan for herbal drugs are among the major caveats. In recent years, few issues pertaining to the classical herbal formulations are being addressed to some extent. However, the issues on non-classical modern formulations remain the same. Hence, the objective of this mini-review is to shed light on the major flaws and challenges of these formulations and provide some expert opinion to counter these issues.
... Further, since this study was cross-sectional and used purposive sampling for venues, only correlational conclusions can be drawn vis-à-vis participant features and relationships between participants' captured anthropometrics and network structures. However, it is unlikely that network structure creates changes in largely fixed variables, such as skin color, though, the rise of skin bleaching and whitening in India (Biswas et al. 2016;Shankar and Subish 2016) may eventually engender a more tactile degree of skin color alterability. Also, despite the referenced advantages of a phone-based method of network generation (Peseckas 2016), such an approach would not incorporate respondents' social network members whom do not own a phone, although this proportion is hypothesized to be low (Ling and Campbell 2009). ...
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... The chemical composition of S. cumini leaves revealed the presence of phenolic compounds such as gallic acid, betulinic acid, myricetin, ellagic acid, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin, besides other components such as canferol, methyl gallate and nilocitin [10][11][12][13][14][15][16]. Phenolic compounds have received much attention lately, as they are natural inhibitors of oxidation and a source of broad-spectrum natural sunscreens [17][18][19][20][21][22]. It has been reported that there are plenty of opportunities in the market for these natural ingredients because they have a positive reputation to be readily accepted [23]. ...
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Ethnopharmacological relevance Traditional knowledge is a particular form of practice or skill set that was developed in ancient times and was sustained through generations via the passing of knowledge, essentially confined within a specific tribe, local people, or family lineages. Ethnodermatological use of medicinal plants in India is still a subject to conduct more studies to see if there is chemical, microbiological, and/or clinical evidence, from a scientific perspective, of their effectiveness for those skin disorders. Thus, this review can be the basis for further studies and may provide targets for drug development. Aim of the study We compile and emphasize the most important part of ethnodermatology, namely, traditional knowledge of medicinal plants and their applications for several skin diseases in India. We also include a brief review and explanation on dermatology in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. We review the pharmacological activity of extracts derived from some of the most cited plants against problem skin diseases as well. Materials and methods Different kinds of key phrases such as “Indian traditional ethnodermatology”, “ethnodermatology”, “ethnobotany”, “skin diseases”, “Ayurveda dermatology”, “pharmacological activity” were searched in online search servers/databases such as Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/), ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/), PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/), NISCAIR Online Periodicals Repository (NOPR) (http://nopr.niscair.res.in/). Based upon the analyses of data obtained from 178 articles, we formulated several important findings which are a summary shown in Tables. Tables. A total of 119 records of plants’ uses have been found across India against 39 skin diseases. These are depicted with their localities of report, parts used, and preparation and administration methods against particular skin diseases. Results The knowledge and utilisation of herbal medicine in the Indian subcontinent has great potential to treat different kinds of human skin disorders. The administration of extracts from most of the plant species used is topical and few only are administrated orally. We also investigated the pharmacological activity of the extracts of the most cited plants against mice, bacterial and fungal pathogens, and human cells. Conclusions Complementary therapy for dermatological problems and treatment remains the main option for millions of people in the Indian subcontinent. This review on the practices of ethnobotanical dermatology in India confirms the belief that their analysis will accelerate the discovery of new, effective therapeutic agents for skin diseases. However, more studies and clinical evidence are still required to determine if the identified species may contribute to skin condition treatment, particularly in atopic eczema. Today, ethnodermatology is a well-accepted international discipline and many new practices have been initiated in numerous countries. We hope this article will further accelerate the development of this area to identify a new generation of natural human skin treatments that will help meet the growing consumer demand for safe, sustainable, and natural treatments. In this context, research on plants utilised in ethnodermatology in India and elsewhere should be intensified.
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The andiroba oil extracted of Carapa guianensis has attracted considerable interest by the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries because of its anti-inflammatory and insect repellent properties. This research evaluated the in vitro and in vivo andiroba oil photoprotection activity. Stable O/W emulsions with ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate were prepared with and without andiroba oil. These emulsions were assessed by evaluating several parameters such as macroscopic analysis and organoleptic aspects, emulsion type by diluition test and in vitro and in vivo determinations of Sun Protect Factor (SPF). The in vitro SPF was determined according to the spectrophotometric method developed by Mansur. The in vivo SPF values were determined according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) method. There was not statistical difference among the formulations, demonstrating that the andiroba oil did not present photoprotective activity.
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Tyrosinase is a multifunctional, glycosylated, and copper-containing oxidase, which catalyzes the first two steps in mammalian melanogenesis and is responsible for enzymatic browning reactions in damaged fruits during post-harvest handling and processing. Neither hyperpigmentation in human skin nor enzymatic browning in fruits are desirable. These phenomena have encouraged researchers to seek new potent tyrosinase inhibitors for use in foods and cosmetics. This article surveys tyrosinase inhibitors newly discovered from natural and synthetic sources. The inhibitory strength is compared with that of a standard inhibitor, kojic acid, and their inhibitory mechanisms are discussed.
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Objective: The present study was aimed to develop a high performance liquid chromatographic method for simultaneous estimation of curcumin and silibinin and to implement the developed method for the estimation of curcumin and silibinin encapsulated in polymeric nanoparticles. Methods: Method development for simultaneous estimation of curcumin and silibinin was performed using various solvent, buffer-solvent ratio, flow rate and elution mode. The developed method was validated in accordance with international conference on harmonisation guideline. The developed method was implemented to estimate the amount of curcumin and silibinin encapsulated in Eudragit E 100 nanoparticles. Results: The optimum chromatographic condition with adequate resolution for curcumin (11.44 minutes) and silibinin (2.92 minutes) was achieved when the separation was carried using C18 column at a column oven temperature of 35°C with an isocratic elution mode of mobile phase composed of a degassed mixture of 0.1% ortho phosphoric acid and acetonitrile (50:50 v/v) at 1.0 mLmin-1 flow rate with a total run time of 15 minutes. The developed method was validated for system suitability, accuracy, precision, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, linearity, range and robustness. The encapsulation efficiency of curcumin (94% & 79%) and silibinin (85% & 73%) was estimated using the developed method. Conclusion: The developed analytical method is simple, precise, and reproducible and thus can be used for routine analysis of curcumin and silibinin in pharmaceutical formulation.
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The andiroba oil extracted of Carapa guianensis has attracted considerable interest by the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries because of its anti-inflammatory and insect repellent properties. This research evaluated the in vitro and in vivo andiroba oil photoprotection activity. Stable O/W emulsions with ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate were prepared with and without andiroba oil. These emulsions were assessed by evaluating several parameters such as macroscopic analysis and organoleptic aspects, emulsion type by diluition test and in vitro and in vivo determinations of Sun Protect Factor (SPF). The in vitro SPF was determined according to the spectrophotometric method developed by Mansur. The in vivo SPF values were determined according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) method. There was not statistical difference among the formulations, demonstrating that the andiroba oil did not present photoprotective activity.
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The Rubia cordifolia Linn (Manjistha) is a wealthy resource of anthraquinones and its derivatives. In this study, the tyrosinase inhibitory potential of R. cordifolia (root extracts) was explored through bio-activity guided fractionation. Anti-tyrosinase assay guided fractionation led to obtained three different bioactive fractions, e.g., F3, F4 and F5 from plant extract. Subsequent, Liquid chromatographic (RP-HPLC) analysis revealed the active fractions contained 0.89 ± 0.03%, 3.24 ± 0.18% and 2.03 ± 0.24% (w/w) of purpurin respectively. The study indicated that the most bioactive fraction of R. cordifolia (F4) and purpurin showed primarily monophenolase inhibition and to a lesser extent diphenolase inhibitory activity. In addition, results of enzyme kinetic analysis shown F4 and purpurin reversibly inhibited tyrosinase in a competitive manner. 1-Anilino-8-naphthalene sulfonate (ANS)-binding fluorescence measurement proved that conformation of tertiary structure of tyrosinase was not altered by inhibitors. Although circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy analysis showed that α-helical content of secondary structure decreased with increment of inhibitor's concentration. Molecular docking results implied that the possible inhibitory mechanisms may be attributed to purpurin interaction with copper ion coordinating three histidine residues (HIS61, HIS85, and HIS263) of tyrosinase. This finding could be of importance in prevention of the undesirable enzymatic browning reaction of food products, as well as hyper-pigmentation of human skin.
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Elders are known to be storehouse of traditional values, skills and morale. Present paper is an attempt to discuss the traditional knowledge of elderly people, their role and highlights many areas where it can be useful for elderly themselves. Some insights are offered for strategic utilization of traditional knowledge and experience of elderly to address the need and improve the quality of elderly life in terms of socio-psychological, cultural, economic and health aspects. This valuable traditional information can be made accessible, affordable and adaptable to the specific needs of elderly people. Presently, the loss of biological diversity and erosion of traditional knowledge systems (TKS) are issues of great concern. Most of these systems of knowledge are unique and are often known only to a few individuals or communities. This traditional knowledge includes mental inventories of local biological resources, animal breeds, local plant, and crop and tree species. Traditional knowledge may include information about trees and plants that grow well together, about indicator plants that show the soil salinity, or are known to flower at the beginning of the rains. It includes practices and technologies, such as seed treatment and storage methods, and tools used for planting and harvesting. Traditional knowledge encompasses belief systems that play a fundamental role in people's livelihood, maintaining their health, and protecting and replenishing the environment. Traditional knowledge is dynamic in nature and is stored in culture in various forms, such as traditions, customs, folk stories, folk songs, folk dramas, legends, proverbs, etc. The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, endorsed by the UN Human Rights Council in June 2006, recognizes "that respect for indigenous knowledge, cultures and traditional practices contributes to sustainable and equitable development and proper management of the environment" 1-2 .
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Legumes are a rich source of proteins, dietary fiber, micronutrients and bioactive phytochemicals. The antioxidative properties and total phenolic contents of raw and processed (dry heating, autoclaving and soaking followed by autoclaving) seed extracts of Cicer arietinum and Pisum sativum were analyzed. The raw and processed seed samples were extracted with 80% methanol and 70% acetone separately and used for the evaluation of its antioxidant potential. Total phenolic and tannin content of raw and processed seed extracts ranged from 11.46–19.42 mg/g extract and 1.03–14.64 mg/g extract. In general, the raw seed extracts were the most potent antioxidant suppliers and free radical scavengers. Interestingly, among the various processing methods, dry heated sample registered higher DPPH (11.10 g extract/g DPPH) and ABTS (124,634 μmol/g extract) radical scavenging activity, metal chelating (2.34 mg EDTA/g extract) and inhibition of bleaching (70%). These results indicated that processing methods significantly changed contents and activities of antioxidant components of C. arietinum and P. sativum. Nonetheless, the dry heating processing method proved to be advantageous in retaining the integrity of the appearance and texture of the legume with greater retention of antioxidant components and activities.
Article
Concepts of Amraz-e-nafsaniya (psychiatric disorders) date back to Hippocrates (460–377 B.C.), the father of medicine to whom psychiatry owes a great deal. It was him who first described the brain as the most important organ in the human body and declared that it is the brain alone from where our pleasures, joys, laughter, and jest, as well as our sorrows, pains, grief, and tears come from. This concept can be further traced in the writings of Asclepiades 5th century A.D., Soranus of Ephesus (98–138 A.D.), Aretaeus (150–200 A.D.), Galen (131–210 A.D.), Rhazes (850–925 A.D.), Al-Majusi (930–994 A.D.), Abu Sahal Masihi (1010 A.D.), Avicenna (980–1037 A.D.), and several other Unani physicians. They have all mentioned psychiatric disorders viz. delirium, melancholia, hysteria, insomnia, etc., and even philosophized about the reasons for various states of mind. While describing the faculties of the human body, they have made a separate mention of Quwwat-e-nafsaniya, the psychic faculty. Avicenna has written a psychological treatise in his book, Al-Qanun fit-Tibb (The Canon of Medicine), in which he postulated five faculties of the interior senses. Ibn-e-Nafees (1210–1288 A.D.), in his book, Kulliyat-e-Nafeesi (Book on Fundamentals, written by Nafeesi), has dealt with the effect of psychological signs and symptoms on the body. The savants of Unani Medicine have also described the causative factors, clinical features, and even the differential diagnoses of different psychiatric disorders along with their management. The present communication attempts to discuss significant contributions of yesteryear scholars of Unani Medicine to psychiatry.
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Traditionally, the herbal drugs are well established for their therapeutic benefits. Depending upon their geographical sources sometimes the trace and heavy metals' content may differ, which may lead to severe toxicity. So, the toxicological and safety assessment of these herbal drugs are one of the major issues in recent days. Eight different plant species including Aloe vera, Centella asiatica, Calendula officinalis, Cucumis sativus, Camellia sinensis, Clitoria ternatea, Piper betel and Tagetes erecta were selected to determine their heavy and trace metals content and thereby to assure their safer therapeutic application. The trace and heavy metals were detected through atomic absorption spectrometry analysis. The selected medicinal plant materials were collected from the local cultivated regions of West Bengal, India, and were digested with nitric acid and hydrochloric acid as specified. Absorbance was measured through atomic absorption spectrometer (AA 303) and the concentration of different trace and heavy metals in the plant samples were calculated. The quantitative determinations were carried out using standard calibration curve obtained by the standard solutions of different metals. The contents of heavy metals were found to be within the prescribed limit. Other trace metals were found to be present in significant amount. Thus, on the basis of experimental outcome, it can be concluded that the plant materials collected from the specific region are safe and may not produce any harmful effect of metal toxicity during their therapeutic application. The investigated medicinal plants contain trace metals such as copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni) as well as heavy metals such as arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg), which were present within the permissible limit.
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METHODS for measuring antioxidants and appraising antioxidant activity appear to be of two general types. If the chemical nature of the antioxidant is known, one may strive for a test specific for the compound or group of interest; for example, the nitroprusside test for sulphydryl groups. Alternatively one may observe the inhibition of some natural oxidative process such as the β-oxidation of fats, as a function of the added antioxidant.
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Flavonoid content of mulberry leaves of 19 varieties of species, determined spectrophotometrically in terms of rutin equivalent, varied from 11.7 to 26.6 mg g−1 in spring leaves and 9.84 to 29.6 mg g−1 in autumn leaves. Fresh leaves gave more extract than air-dried or oven-dried ones. HPLC showed that mulberry leaves contain at least four flavonoids, two of which are rutin and quercetin. The percentage superoxide ion scavenged by extracts of mulberry leaves, mulberry tender leaves, mulberry branches and mulberry bark were 46.5, 55.5, 67.5 and 85·5%, respectively, at a concentration of 5 μg ml−1. The scavenging effects of most mulberry extracts were greater than those of rutin (52.0%).
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Plant derived compounds, as potentially safe and effective skin lightening agents (SLAs), have attracted great attention from many researchers. Curcumin is a plant-derived polyphenol, which has been reported to suppress melanogenesis in B16 melanoma cells. However, little is known about whether curcumin affects melanogenesis in cultured human melanocytes. In addition, the molecular mechanism for the antimelanogenic effects of curcumin remains largely unknown. The present study assessed the effects of curcumin on melanin synthesis, cellular tyrosinase activity, the expression of melanogenesis-related proteins (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1 and 2 (TRP-1, TRP-2)), and activation of melanogenesis-regulating signals including phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/ glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK 3β), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 MAPK in human melanocytes. The results showed that the melanin content and tyrosinase activity, as well as the expression of melanogenesis-related proteins in human melanocytes, were significantly inhibited by curcumin in a dose dependent manner. In addition, PI3K/Akt/ GSK 3β, ERK and p38 MAPK were activated by curcumin, while inhibitors of these signals attenuated the inhibitory effects of curcumin on melanogenesis. These results suggest that curcumin inhibits melanogenesis in human melanocytes through activation of Akt/GSK 3β, ERK or p38 MAPK signaling pathways.
Article
The aim of this study was to screen the antioxidant, anti-hyaluronidase, and anti-elastase activity of the lyophilized juice of Cucumis sativus fruit (CSLJ). The CSLJ was subjected to DPPH and superoxide radical scavenging assay in reference to butylated hydroxytoluene. The hyaluronidase and elastase inhibitory assay was performed in reference to oleanolic acid. Furthermore, the activities have been rationalized with HPLC analysis of the CSLJ with standard reference compound of ascorbic acid. The CSLJ exhibited DPPH-free radical and superoxide radical scavenging activity, IC(50) at a concentration of 14.73 ± 1.42 and 35.29 ± 1.30 μg/mL, respectively. The CSLJ also showed strong anti-hyaluronidase ((c) P < 0.001) and anti-elastase ((c) P < 0.001) activity, IC(50) at a concentration of 20.98 ± 1.78 and 6.14 ± 1.74 μg/mL, respectively. The HPLC 'chromatogram' of standard and CSLJ showed specific peak at retention time 2.905 and 3.066 min, respectively. Content of ascorbic acid was calculated with respect to the standard compound and it was found to be 3.5 ± 0.23% w/w. CSLJ is the rich source of ascorbic acid and this study thereby rationalizes the use of C. sativus as potential anti-wrinkle agent in cosmetic products.
Article
Hyperpigmentation disorders and skin lightening treatments have a significant impact on the dermatologic, physiologic, psychologic, economic, social, and cultural aspects of life. Skin lightening compounds, such as hydroquinone and topical corticosteroids, are often used to treat hyperpigmentation disorders, such as melasma, or lighten skin for cosmetic purposes. Despite their established effectiveness, a multitude of dermatologic and systemic complications have been associated with these agents. Regulatory agencies have also recognized the adverse effects of skin lighteners and many countries around the world now forbid the production and sale of these compounds, although this prohibition has not significantly curtailed distribution. Dermatologists and users of cosmetic products should be aware of the various components in bleaching compounds, their potential adverse effects, and alternative options for skin lightening.
Article
Massage, together with breast-feeding, are the two fundamental nurturing practices of women in south Asia. In Mithila women are expected to massage their infants daily. If they do not, they lay themselves open to censure. Implicit in massage is the idea that a child's health is preserved by fostering its strength and invulnerability. Massage 'works' by instilling fearlessness, hardening bone structure, enhancing movement and limb coordination, and increasing weight. These practices, in turn, are premised on the idea that between birth and weaning the infant is highly impressionable such that its identity can be shaped by the women who nurture it.
Article
Water, aqueous methanol, and aqueous ethanol extracts of freeze-dried leaves of Moringa oleifera Lam. from different agroclimatic regions were examined for radical scavenging capacities and antioxidant activities. All leaf extracts were capable of scavenging peroxyl and superoxyl radicals. Similar scavenging activities for different solvent extracts of each collection were found for the stable 1,1-diphenyl 2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH(*)) radical. Among the three different moringa samples, both methanol and ethanol extracts of Indian origins showed the highest antioxidant activities, 65.1 and 66.8%, respectively, in the beta-carotene-linoleic acid system. Nonetheless, increasing concentration of all the extracts had significantly (P < 0.05) increased reducing power, which may in part be responsible for their antioxidant activity. The major bioactive compounds of phenolics were found to be flavonoid groups such as quercetin and kaempferol. On the basis of the results obtained, moringa leaves are found to be a potential source of natural antioxidants due to their marked antioxidant activity. This is the first report on the antioxidant properties of the extracts from freeze-dried moringa leaves. Overall, both methanol (80%) and ethanol (70%) were found to be the best solvents for the extraction of antioxidant compounds from moringa leaves.
Article
Turmeric extracts were obtained from two lots of raw material (M and S) using various techniques: hydrodistillation, low pressure solvent extraction, Soxhlet, and supercritical extraction using carbon dioxide and cosolvents. The solvents and cosolvents tested were ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, and their mixture in equal proportions. The composition of the extracts was determined by gas chromatography-flame ionization detection (GC-FID) and UV. The largest yield (27%, weight) was obtained in the Soxhlet extraction (turmeric (S), ethanol = 1:100); the lowest yield was detected in the hydrodistillation process (2.1%). For the supercritical extraction, the best cosolvent was a mixture of ethanol and isopropyl alcohol. Sixty percent of the light fraction of the extracts consisted of ar-turmerone, (Z)-gamma-atlantone, and (E)-gamma-atlantone, except for the Soxhlet extracts (1:100, ethanol), for which only ar-turmeronol and (Z)-alpha-atlantone were detected. The maximum amount of curcuminoids (8.43%) was obtained using Soxhlet extraction (ethanol/isopropyl alcohol). The Soxhlet and low pressure extract exhibited the strongest antioxidant activities.
Article
The use of mercury containing skin-lightening creams are becoming increasingly popular among dark-skinned women. The long term use of certain brands may cause serious health effects over the years. In the present study, we investigated the dermal absorption of mercury and its accumulation in the tissues of albino and pigmented mice treated with two brands of mercury containing skin-lightening creams for a period of one months at different intervals. The mean ± SD of mercury in the selected brands were: (1) Fair & Lovely (0.304 ± 0.316 μg/g); and (2) Rose (77513.0 ± 71063.0 μg/g). Mercury levels were measured in a total of 133 and 144 liver, kidney and brain tissue samples of albino and pigmented mice respectively by the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer coupled to Vapour Generator Accessory. In both strains, we found that the mercury concentration in the tissues of mice treated with Rose skin-lightening cream samples was significantly higher than those treated with Fair & Lovely skin lightening cream. Looking at the mercury concentration in the tissue samples with respect to the application of skin lightening creams at different intervals, the highest mercury concentrations were found in the tissues of albino and pigmented mice treated three times a day. On the other hand, the lowest mercury concentrations were found in the tissues of mice treated once a week. Despite the brand of skin-lightening cream that was applied, the study indicated that mercury was readily absorbed through the skin of both albino and pigmented mice as evidenced with its accumulation in the brain, kidney and liver tissues where the kidney had the highest mercury content and brain had the lowest (it P
Article
Antioxidant compounds in green tea may be able to protect against skin carcinogenesis and it is of interest to investigate the mechanisms involved. A study was therefore conducted to determine whether the isolated green tea polyphenol (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) could prevent ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-induced DNA damage in cultured human cells. This work was then extended to investigate whether drinking green tea could afford any UVR protection to human peripheral blood cells collected after tea ingestion. The alkaline comet assay was used to compare the DNA damage induced by UVR in cultured human cells with and without the presence of EGCG. The same assay technique was then employed to assess UVR-induced DNA damage in peripheral leucocytes isolated from 10 adult human volunteers before and after drinking 540 ml of green tea. Initial trials found that EGCG afforded concentration-dependent photoprotection to cultured human cells with a maximal activity at a culture concentration of 250 microM. The cells types tested (lung fibroblasts, skin fibroblasts and epidermal keratinocytes) demonstrated varying susceptibility to the UVR insult provided. The in vivo trials of green tea also demonstrated a photoprotective effect, with samples of peripheral blood cells taken after green tea consumption showing lower levels of DNA damage than those taken prior to ingestion when exposed to 12 min ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation. The studies showed that green tea and/or some constituents can offer some protection against UV-induced DNA damage in human cell cultures and also in human peripheral blood samples taken post-tea ingestion.
Article
A novel formulation of curcumin in combination with the phospholipids was developed to overcome the limitation of absorption and to investigate the protective effect of curcumin-phospholipid complex on carbon tetrachloride induced acute liver damage in rats. The antioxidant activity of curcumin-phospholipid complex (equivalent of curcumin 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) and free curcumin (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) was evaluated by measuring various enzymes in oxidative stress condition. Curcumin-phospholipid complex significantly protected the liver by restoring the enzyme levels of liver glutathione system and that of superoxide dismutase, catalase and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances with respect to carbon tetrachloride treated group (P < 0.05 and <0.01). The complex provided better protection to rat liver than free curcumin at same doses. Serum concentration of curcumin obtained from the complex (equivalent to 1.0 g/kg of curcumin) was higher (Cmax 1.2 microg/ml) than pure curcumin (1.0 g/kg) (Cmax 0.5 microg/ml) and the complex maintained effective concentration of curcumin for a longer period of time in rat serum. The result proved that curcumin-phospholipid complex has better hepatoprotective activity, owe to its superior antioxidant property, than free curcumin at the same dose level.
Article
This article addresses pigmentary disorders relevant to India. Many of these disorders are easily spotted because of the Indians' darker complexion. The authors examine hypopigmentary and hyperpigmentary disorders, defining the main characteristics of each and their relevance to the people of India, including social as well as physical ramifications. The authors propose the treatments available to Indians exhibiting these skin disorders.
Ayurvedic Beauty Care: Ageless Techniques to Invoke Natural Beauty
  • M Sachs
Sachs, M., 2002. Ayurvedic Beauty Care: Ageless Techniques to Invoke Natural Beauty. Motilal Banarsidass Publ.
2014. Heavy Metals in Cosmetics. PML/ PR-45
  • Center
  • Science
  • Environment
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Expert Working Group Validation of analytical procedures: text and methodology Q2(R1) Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use Available Online
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