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Anxiolytic-like effect of Griffonia simplicifolia Baill. seed extract in rats
Abstract
The seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia Baill., a tropical shrub native to West Africa, are rich in 5-hydroxy-l-tryptophan (5-HTP), a direct precursor in the synthesis of serotonin (5-HT). In spite of the modern therapeutic application of Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract in mood disorders, no scientific evidence has been provided till now. For this reason the aim of our study was to investigate the effect of Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract on anxiety behavior. Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract, dosed at 1, 5, 10 and 25 mg/kg, was orally administered in rats which were submitted to the dark-light test and open field test, 60 min after the treatment. In the dark-light test, the administration of the extract at the doses of 10 and 25 mg/kg was able to significantly increase the time spent in the light compartment (P<0.05). In the open field test, the extract dosed at 5, 10 and 25 mg/kg induced an anti-tigmotactic effect, as indicated by a significant increase of time spent in the central area of the open field (P<0.01). In conclusion these findings indicate that Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract exerts anxiolytic-like effect in rats and suggest its potential usefulness for the treatment of anxiety in humans.
... A decoction of the stems and leaves is administered internally to stop vomiting and to treat congestion of the pelvis and externally used as a disinfectant. The seeds of G. simplicifolia are used as an herbal supplement for their 5hydroxytryptophan content (5-HTP) which is a direct precursor for serotonin [7,12] . 5-HTP is known to increase serotonin levels in the central nervous system and has widely been used in the treatment of depression, fibromyalgia, migraine, obesity and insomnia [7,[12][13] . ...
... The seeds of G. simplicifolia are used as an herbal supplement for their 5hydroxytryptophan content (5-HTP) which is a direct precursor for serotonin [7,12] . 5-HTP is known to increase serotonin levels in the central nervous system and has widely been used in the treatment of depression, fibromyalgia, migraine, obesity and insomnia [7,[12][13] . With its abundance in the seeds of G. simplicifolia, it could represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of serotonin-related disorders. ...
... With its abundance in the seeds of G. simplicifolia, it could represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of serotonin-related disorders. Most research studies conducted on the pharmacological potential of G. simplicifolia are mainly focused on crude extracts of the leaves [9] , seeds [12] , stem-bark and ethnobotanical review [13] . With the scientific evidence of the plant pharmacological properties lacking, it is important to identify the bioactive compounds responsible for each of the ascribed bioactivities. ...
Griffonia simplicifolia has ethnomedicinal use in the treatment of depression, fibromyalgia, bladder and kidney problems, insomnia, malaria, obesity, migraine, as an aphrodisiac and a remedy for cough. The aim of this present study is to investigate the biological activities (antimicrobial and antioxidant) and isolate some of the components in the methanol and petroleum ether leaf extracts of Griffonia simplicifolia. Phytochemical screening, antimicrobial (agar and broth dilution method) and antioxidant [total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DPPH and H2O2 scavenging] assays were carried out on extracts. Thin layer and column chromatography were employed to isolate a single component which was analyzed using FTIR analysis. The petroleum ether and methanol extracts showed antimicrobial activity against test organisms with MICs ranging from 12.5 – 62.5 mg/mL. The IC50 values for methanol and petroleum ether extracts in the DPPH and H2O2 assays were 61.85 ± 0.41 and 94.26 ± 0.82 µg/mL; and 524.61 ± 0.68 and 976.75 ± 4.17 µg/mL, respectively. The TACs (gAAE/100 g) for methanol and petroleum ether extracts were 36.42 ± 0.38 and 18.47 ± 0.56 g, respectively. The phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, saponins, glycosides, phenols, tannins and coumarins. The findings of this study suggest that Griffonia simplicifolia leaves could be exploited as potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of bacterial infections and diseases associated with oxidative-stress.
... A decoction of the stems and leaves is administered internally to stop vomiting and to treat congestion of the pelvis and externally used as a disinfectant. The seeds of G. simplicifolia are used as an herbal supplement for their 5hydroxytryptophan content (5-HTP) which is a direct precursor for serotonin [7,12] . 5-HTP is known to increase serotonin levels in the central nervous system and has widely been used in the treatment of depression, fibromyalgia, migraine, obesity and insomnia [7,[12][13] . ...
... The seeds of G. simplicifolia are used as an herbal supplement for their 5hydroxytryptophan content (5-HTP) which is a direct precursor for serotonin [7,12] . 5-HTP is known to increase serotonin levels in the central nervous system and has widely been used in the treatment of depression, fibromyalgia, migraine, obesity and insomnia [7,[12][13] . With its abundance in the seeds of G. simplicifolia, it could represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of serotonin-related disorders. ...
... With its abundance in the seeds of G. simplicifolia, it could represent a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of serotonin-related disorders. Most research studies conducted on the pharmacological potential of G. simplicifolia are mainly focused on crude extracts of the leaves [9] , seeds [12] , stem-bark and ethnobotanical review [13] . With the scientific evidence of the plant pharmacological properties lacking, it is important to identify the bioactive compounds responsible for each of the ascribed bioactivities. ...
Griffonia simplicifolia has ethnomedicinal use in the treatment of depression, fibromyalgia, bladder and kidney problems, insomnia, malaria, obesity, migraine, as an aphrodisiac and a remedy for cough. The aim of this present study is to investigate the biological activities (antimicrobial and antioxidant) and isolate some of the components in the methanol and petroleum ether leaf extracts of Griffonia simplicifolia. Phytochemical screening, antimicrobial (agar and broth dilution method) and antioxidant [total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DPPH and H2O2 scavenging] assays were carried out on extracts. Thin layer and column chromatography were employed to isolate a single component which was analyzed using FTIR analysis. The petroleum ether and methanol extracts showed antimicrobial activity against test organisms with MICs ranging from 12.5-62.5 mg/mL. The IC50 values for methanol and petroleum ether extracts in the DPPH and H2O2 assays were 61.85 ± 0.41 and 94.26 ± 0.82 µg/mL; and 524.61 ± 0.68 and 976.75 ± 4.17 µg/mL, respectively. The TACs (gAAE/100 g) for methanol and petroleum ether extracts were 36.42 ± 0.38 and 18.47 ± 0.56 g, respectively. The phytochemical investigation revealed the presence of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, saponins, glycosides, phenols, tannins and coumarins. The findings of this study suggest that Griffonia simplicifolia leaves could be exploited as potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of bacterial infections and diseases associated with oxidative-stress.
... Similarly, there are large amounts of 5-HTP in the harvested seeds of Griffonia simplcifolia, which has attracted commercialisation. This plant has beneficial effects on young subjects with high levels of acute stress (Emanuele et al. 2010;Carnevale et al. 2011), as well various diseases, such as depression, insomnia, chronic headaches, and obesity and binge eating (Xu et al. 2020). More importantly, 5-HTP has overwhelming advantages over synthetic anti-depressants and tryptophan in alleviating the numerous impacts of serotonin deficiency syndrome (Carnevale et al. 2011). ...
... This plant has beneficial effects on young subjects with high levels of acute stress (Emanuele et al. 2010;Carnevale et al. 2011), as well various diseases, such as depression, insomnia, chronic headaches, and obesity and binge eating (Xu et al. 2020). More importantly, 5-HTP has overwhelming advantages over synthetic anti-depressants and tryptophan in alleviating the numerous impacts of serotonin deficiency syndrome (Carnevale et al. 2011). In contrast to its effects on humans, 5-HTP inhibited plant growth (Hagin 1989). ...
... Additionally, the seeds can be processed into pastes, extracts, or powders to seamlessly incorporate into various foods and drinks. This botanical marvel boasts a rich heritage in African folk medicine, predominantly attributed to its profound impacts on the central nervous system, mood modulation, and management of gastrointestinal ailments [3,4]. As a result, G. simplicifolia and its phytochemicals have been the focus of significant scientific research for the formulation of dietary supplements and/or the creation of new therapeutic medications [5]. ...
... In particular, a plant is a rich source of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) [6], a known precursor of serotonin, a neurotransmitter of the human central nervous system [7]. Consequently, G. simplicifolia has a potential for use as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of mood disorders, sleep management, and improving cognitive performance, also becoming a good candidate for formulating dietary supplements aimed at preventing mood changes or other serotonin-related disorders [3]. ...
Griffonia simplicifolia, a tropical plant endemic to West Africa, is highly regarded for its significant pharmacological potential. The objective of this study was to evaluate the metabolomic profile and to explore the antioxidant properties, antiproliferative activity, and antimicrobial potential of G. simplicifolia seed extracts obtained through either maceration, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), or Soxhlet extraction using water, acetone, methanol and ethanol as solvents. Overall, methanol possessed superior total extraction efficiency. HPLC analyses confirmed the efficacy of acetone and ethanol as optimal solvents for the extraction of flavonoids and flavan-3-ols, whereas MAE exhibited enhanced effectiveness in extracting N-containing compounds, including 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). HPLC-MS analyses identified forty-three compounds, including thirty-four phenolic compounds and nine N-containing molecules. Isomyricitrin, taxifolin and a flavonol glucuronide were the main polyphenols, whereas 5-HTP was the main N-containing compound. Hydroalcoholic G. simplicifolia extracts showed the highest radical scavenging and metal-reducing antioxidant power, suggesting that most of the contribution to antioxidant activity depends on the more polar bioactive compounds. G. simplicifolia extracts showed dose-dependent antiproliferative activity against three distinct cancer cell lines (HeLa, HepG2, and MCF-7), with notable variations observed among both the different extracts and cell lines and divergent GI50 values, emphasizing substantial discrepancies in cell sensitivity to the various extracts. Furthermore, G. simplicifolia extracts revealed antibiotic activity against Staphylococcus aureus. Our results highlight the potential of G. simplicifolia phytochemicals in the development of functional foods, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements.
... The copyright holder for this preprint this version posted January 13, 2022. Griffonia simplicifolia [42,43], the main component of aleozen, rich in 5 Hydroxytryptophan precursor of serotonin regulating sleep and mood, and Gentiana lutea [44][45][46] with its presence of xanthones is inhibitory of MonoAmine Oxidase, therefore antipsychotic. ...
... Rhodiola rosea [47,48], Crataegus oxyacantha [49], Eschscholtzia californica [50] and Melissa officinalis [51] are mild sedatives, Zinc and Vitamin B6 are nutrient for the nerve 42.83 in the 10 th day to 17.05 after 90 days (reduction was high than 50%) [15]. Second, in a Double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a fixed combination containing two plant extracts (Crataegus oxyacantha and Eschscholtzia californica) and magnesium in mild-to-moderate anxiety disorders, Hanus and colleague approved that on whatever parameter (Hamilton total score, Hamilton somatic score, or VAS) . ...
Introduction: The prevention from Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is therefore of major public health interest and one of the concerns of any emergency physician. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of an herbal supplement to prevent the occurrence of PTSD in high-risk patients.
Methods: It is a randomized, double-blind, prospective, interventional study including patients exposed to a potentially traumatic event that meets DSM-V Criterion A and has a Peri-traumatic Distress Inventory score or the Questionnary for traumatic dissociation experiments (PDEQ) and/or L.Crocq score higher than the thresholds between day 1 and day 3. Two hundred patients were included randomly assigned into two groups: Aleozen group and placebo group. Patients included in aleozen group received Aleozen® for 10 days while patients in placebo group received Placebo. A CAPS-5 assessment was performed for all patients at different moments. The main objective was to assess the efficacy of Aleozen after 90 days of an exposition to traumatic events according to PTSD. Secondary objectives were to evaluate the safety of Aleozen® at 10 and 30 days after its administration and PTSD in the study population after one year of inclusion.
Results: No statistical differences were noted between the two groups in term of baseline characteristics including age, sex and the ISS score. After 90 days of follow-up, and according to the CAPS-5 scale, 85 patients (42.5%) of the population study showed PTSD. Concerning primary endpoint, less PTSD were seen in intervention group compared to placebo group (38.8% versus 61.2% respectively; p<0.001). During the study, no adverse events were noted.
Conclusion: Results of this work suggest the potential preventive effects of an herbal supplement on PTSD for traumatic patient in emergency. Further confirmatory studies are needed.
... Another scientific evidence of great relevance was observed in a study in the field of basic neuroscience with Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract on the behavior of anxiety in rats in the open field test. 49 In this test, animals tend to hide in the dark space, as a form of protection from predators. Normally, animals do not spend much time in the light area. ...
... In the dark light test, administration of the extract at doses of 10 and 25mg/kg was able to significantly increase the time spent in the light compartment. 49 More very expressive evidence of 5-HTP in Griffonia simplicifolia was observed in one study 46 where Griffonia 5-HTP extract was administered via spray in the oral cavity, and the adequacy of absorption was confirmed by increasing the urinary 5-HIAA by 24h, and that the supplementation of the diet of women with excess of weight with 5-hydroxytryptophan increased the feeling of satiety associated with a decrease in body mass index (BMI). 46 It has also been shown that therapeutic administration of 5-HTP can be effective in depression, 50 fibromyalgia, 51 chronic headaches and insomnia. ...
Introduction: Several studies have demonstrated the importance of some plants for the
treatment of depression because they are sources of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), among
them, Griffonia simplicifolia stands out, especially when dosed and formulated as an herbal
remedy.
Objective: The purpose of this article is to conduct a narrative review on the treatment of
depression through the phytotherapic Griffonia simplicifolia.
Method: A bibliographic review and a search of the electronic index databases MEDLINE/
PubMed, Web of Science, CAPES journal portal, BIREME and Google Scholar were
carried out.
Results: Phytotherapy is only equivalent to allopathy only in the use of the law of the like.
However, its substances come only from vegetable origin. Thus, unlike allopathic drugs,
it cannot be called a drug, but an active principle. Thus, both allopathy and phytotherapy
agree to increase the availability of 5-HT in the treatment of depression. In this sense, among
these medicinal plants tested in the laboratory, this study chose Griffonia simplicifolia that
presents pharmacodynamic conditions for the treatment of depression because it is a source
of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). Research has shown that Griffonia simplicifolia extracts
increase the level of serotonin in the brain. Each seed is estimated to contain about 6 to 14%
of 5-HTP. In some countries, after an industrial extraction, the researchers combine the
contents of several seeds to provide 95-98% of 5-HTP in each capsule.
Conclusion: The studies presented in this narrative review demonstrate that 5-HTP
extracted from Griffonia simplicifolia can be effective in the treatment of fibromyalgia,
chronic headaches, insomnia, in the anxiety control and, above all, in depression.
... Serotonin is important in regulating brain chemistry especially in countering problems such as depression, schizophrenia, insomnia and eating disorders [12,13]. G. simplicifolia seeds also regulate appetite through the increase in serotonin, leading to weight reduction in obese persons, while helping normalize the weight of people suffering from anorexia nervosa [14,15]. Theseed of the plant is being used in treating fibromyalgia, chronic headaches, and of greatest benefit in the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders where there is a deficiency of neuro-serotonin receptors [12]. ...
... These two lectins are commonly used as markers in histology or for research in Xenotransplantation. Lectin component of G. simplicifolia seeds and leaves is somewhat resistant to proteolysis. Despite the aforementioned, currently, no evidence exists as to whether or not these lectins pose a concern to a person with celiac diseases [14,17,18]. Benton et al., [19] and Zhu et al., [20] also reported that G. simplicifolia contains an N-acetylglucosaminespecific legume lectin that has insecticidal activity when fed to the cowpea weevil Callosobruchus maculates (F.). ...
This study aimed at carrying out the vegetative propagation of Griffonia simplicifolia. This was achieved by growing nodal and stem cuttings of G. simplicifolia using two types of soils under varying environmental conditions including open area and humidity propagator. This revealed that terminal nodal stem cuttings showed the best growth forms in terms of shoot development as well as root development when subjected to open area and topsoil. However, when subjected to the humid propagator and river sand, the distal stem cuttings gave the best growth forms thereby promoting shoot and root development. Hence, it is concluded that the terminal nodes are the best parts to be used for the propagation of G. simplicifolia and the best growth medium is river sand. Furthermore, this research demonstrates that G. simplicifolia can be reproduced through macro propagation using stem cuttings and it can be seen as a basis for conservation and other breeding research on G. simplicifolia. Original Research Article Balogun et al.; EJMP, 31(10): 152-160, 2020; Article no.EJMP.58512 153
... Some plants, such as nettle [58] and Griffonia simplicifolia DC were found to contain 5-HT. Griffonia was marketed for its presumptive anxiolytic effects that were later associated with the content of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan, a direct precursor in the synthesis of serotonin [59]. found in Punica granatum L. (that is, pomegranate), fruits of the Fragaria genus (that is, strawberry) [57], Cichorium intybus L. (that is, chicory), Allium ascalonicum L. (that is, green onion), and Lactuca sativa L. (that is, lettuce) [48]. ...
... Some plants, such as nettle [58] and Griffonia simplicifolia DC were found to contain 5-HT. Griffonia was marketed for its presumptive anxiolytic effects that were later associated with the content of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan, a direct precursor in the synthesis of serotonin [59]. ...
Foods are natural sources of substances that may exert crucial effects on the nervous system in humans. Some of these substances are the neurotransmitters (NTs) acetylcholine (ACh), the modified amino acids glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and the biogenic amines dopamine, serotonin (5-HT), and histamine. In neuropsychiatry, progressive integration of dietary approaches in clinical routine made it necessary to discern the more about some of these dietary NTs. Relevant books and literature from PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for data on food sources of Ach, glutamate, GABA, dopamine, 5-HT, and histamine. Different animal foods, fruits, edible plants, roots, and botanicals were reported to contain NTs. These substances can either be naturally present, as part of essential metabolic processes and ecological interactions, or derive from controlled/uncontrolled food technology processes. Ripening time, methods of preservation and cooking, and microbial activity further contributes to NTs. Moreover, gut microbiota are considerable sources of NTs. However, the significance of dietary NTs intake needs to be further investigated as there are no significant data on their bioavailability, neuronal/non neuronal effects, or clinical implications. Evidence-based interventions studies should be encouraged.
... (family Caesalpinaceae). Griffonia simplicifolia is a woody shrub found in west and central Africa including Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo; it is commonly used in African folk medicine to treat wounds, kidney ailments, diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach ache [10]. Although scientific studies on the plant's pharmacological properties are lacking, Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract has modern therapeutic applications, which include the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraine and headache [10]. ...
... Griffonia simplicifolia is a woody shrub found in west and central Africa including Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo; it is commonly used in African folk medicine to treat wounds, kidney ailments, diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach ache [10]. Although scientific studies on the plant's pharmacological properties are lacking, Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract has modern therapeutic applications, which include the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraine and headache [10]. The seeds of the plant are rich in 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), a direct precursor of serotonin. ...
Migraine is common in children, but few specific drugs are available. We performed an open-label comparison of effects of two nutraceutical preparations (ginkgolide B vs. Griffonia simplicifolia extract) on outcomes in 374 school-age children (mean 10.7 years) with migraine without aura. Half of them received ginkgolide B; and half, Griffonia simplicifolia. Both preparations were given orally twice a day for 6 months. Patients kept a headache diary. Outcomes at the beginning and end of treatment were compared. Both preparations reduced all outcome measures after 6 months of treatment. However, reductions in headache frequency, duration and intensity, PedMIDAS score and behavioural reactions to headache were significantly greater in the ginkgolide B group. Both nutraceutical treatments appear promising in paediatric migraine without aura, particularly because of their lack of side effects. However, the ginkgolide B preparation was significantly more effective in the medium-term (6 months).
... (family Caesalpinaceae). Griffonia simplicifolia is a woody shrub found in west and central Africa including Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo; it is commonly used in African folk medicine to treat wounds, kidney ailments, diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach ache [10]. Although scientific studies on the plant's pharmacological properties are lacking, Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract has modern therapeutic applications, which include the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraine and headache [10]. ...
... Griffonia simplicifolia is a woody shrub found in west and central Africa including Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo; it is commonly used in African folk medicine to treat wounds, kidney ailments, diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach ache [10]. Although scientific studies on the plant's pharmacological properties are lacking, Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract has modern therapeutic applications, which include the treatment of anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraine and headache [10]. The seeds of the plant are rich in 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), a direct precursor of serotonin. ...
Migraine is common in children, but few specific drugs are available. We performed an open-label comparison of effects of two nutraceutical preparations (ginkgolide B vs. Griffonia simplicifolia extract) on outcomes in 374 school-age children (mean 10.7 years) with migraine without aura. Half of them received ginkgolide B; and half, Griffonia simplicifolia. Both preparations were given orally twice a day for 6 months. Patients kept a headache diary. Outcomes at the beginning and end of treatment were compared. Both preparations reduced all outcome measures after 6 months of treatment. However, reductions in headache frequency, duration and intensity, PedMIDAS score and behavioural reactions to headache were significantly greater in the ginkgolide B group. Both nutraceutical treatments appear promising in paediatric migraine without aura, particularly because of their lack of side effects. However, the ginkgolide B preparation was significantly more effective in the medium-term (6 months).
... Comparable to DA, serotonin was found in the velvet bean [71]. Griffonia was used for its anxiolytic effects, which were mainly related to the amount of 5-hydroxyl-tryptophan, a specific precursor involved in the production of serotonin [72]. ...
Neurotransmitters (NTs) are biologically active chemicals, which mediate the electrochemi-cal transmission between neurons. NTs control numerous organic functions particularly crucial for life, including movement, emotional responses, and the physical ability to feel pleasure and pain. These molecules are synthesized from simple, very common precursors. Many types of NTs have both excitatory and inhibitory effects. Neurotransmitters' imbalance can cause many diseases and disorders , such as Parkinson's disease, depression, insomnia, increased anxiety, memory loss, etc. Natural food sources containing NTs and/or their precursors would be a potential option to help maintain the balance of NTs to prevent brain and psychiatric disorders. The level of NTs could be influenced, therefore, by targeting dietary habits and nutritional regimens. The progressive implementation of nutritional approaches in clinical practice has made it necessary to infer more about some of the nutritional NTs in neuropsychiatry. However, the importance of the intake of nutritional NTs requires further understanding, since there are no prior significant studies about their bioavailability, clinical significance, and effects on nerve cells. Interventional strategies supported by evidence should be encouraged.
... Ce composé biochimique utilisé comme remède naturel contre les maladies dues au déséquilibre de la sérotonine à savoir la dépression et l'insomnie (Attele et al., 2000 ;Kim et al., 2009 ;Loftis et Turner, 2010). Le 5-HTP est également utilisé pour lutter contre l'appétit insatiable (Halford et al., 2007 ;Carnevale et al., 2011), la fibromyalgie (Birdsall, 1998) ainsi que les migraines et les céphalées (Birdsall, 1998). Par ailleurs, les graines de Griffonia contiennent des alcaloïdes comme la trigonelline, un métabolite de la vitamine B3 (Zhou et al., 2012) et la griffonine (Wang et al., 2013), substance non encore isolée d'aucune autre ne plante (Wang et al., 2013). ...
Le Griffonia (Griffonia simplicifolia) est une plante médicinale dont les graines sont recherchées pour leur richesse en 5- Hydroxytryptophane ou 5- HTP, un acide aminé rare. Cette plante est aussi utilisée traditionnellement pour soigner certaines pathologies. Cependant, elle risque de disparaitre à cause de la destruction de son milieu. Ce travail a été mené pour rechercher les meilleures conditions de sa multiplication végétative en vue de sa domestication. Pour ce faire, des boutures ont été prélevées à trois niveaux (basal, médian et apical) des tiges principales et secondaires puis ensemencées sur le sol arable de forêt et le sable de mer. Les paramètres évalués ont été le délai et le taux de débourrement, le taux de développement des bourgeons en tiges feuillées et le taux d’enracinement ont été pris en compte. Les résultats ont montré que les délais de débourrement ont été respectivement de 7 et 8 jours pour les boutures des parties basale et médiane, et de 11 jours pour celles issues de la partie apicale. Les rapports de bourgeonnement ont varié de 70 à 100 %. Les bourgeons formés ont donné des tiges feuillées avec des taux variables (13 à 76 %) dont le taux le plus élevé a été obtenu avec les bourgeons des boutures de la partie apicale des tiges secondaires. Suite à l’enracinement des tiges feuillées, 66 % de plantes entières ont été régénérés par les boutures de la partie apicale des tiges secondaires ensemencées sur le sol arable de forêt. Pour la tige principale, 36 % de plantes ont été régénérés sur les deux types de substrats à partir des boutures des parties apicales. Ce travail a permis la régénération de Griffonia simplicifolia. Les boutures de la partie apicale des tiges secondaires ensemencées sur le sol arable de forêt ont donné les meilleurs résultats. Cette régénération pourrait être optimisée par l’utilisation d’hormones rhizogènes. ABSTRACT Griffonia (Griffonia simplicifolia) is a medicinal plant whose seeds are sought after for their richness in 5- Hydroxytryptophan or 5- HTP, a rare amino acid. This plant is also traditionally used to treat certain pathologies. However, it also risks being found because of the destruction of its environment.This work was carried out to find the best conditions for its vegetative propagation with a view to its domestication. To do this, cuttings were taken at three levels (basal, median and apical) of the main and secondary stems and then seeded on the arable forest soil and sea sand. The parameters evaluated were the time and rate of bud break, the rate of development of the buds into leafy stems and the rate of rooting were taken into account. The results showed that the bud break times were respectively 7 and 8 days for cuttings from the basal and middle parts, and 11 days for those from the apical part. Bud break rates ranged from 70 to 100%. The buds formed gave leafy stems with variable rates (13 to 76%), the highest rate of which was obtained with the buds of cuttings from the apical part of the secondary stems. Following rooting of the leafy stems, 66% of whole plants were regenerated by cuttings from the apical part of secondary stems sown on arable forest soil. For the main stem, 36% of plants were regenerated on both types of substrates from cuttings from the apical parts. This work allowed the regeneration of Griffonia simplicifolia. Cuttings from the apical part of secondary stems seeded on arable forest soil the best results. This regeneration could be optimized by the use of rhizogen hormones.
... Comparable to DA, serotonin was found in the velvet bean [71]. Griffonia was used for its anxiolytic effects, which were mainly related to the amount of 5-hydroxyl-tryptophan, a specific precursor involved in the production of serotonin [72]. ...
Neurotransmitters (NTs) are biologically active chemicals, which mediate the electrochemical transmission between neurons. NTs control numerous organic functions particularly crucial for life, including movement, emotional responses, and the physical ability to feel pleasure and pain. These molecules are synthesized from simple, very common precursors. Many types of NTs have both excitatory and inhibitory effects. Neurotransmitters’ imbalance can cause many diseases and disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, depression, insomnia, increased anxiety, memory loss, etc. Natural food sources containing NTs and/or their precursors would be a potential option to help maintain the balance of NTs to prevent brain and psychiatric disorders. The level of NTs could be influenced, therefore, by targeting dietary habits and nutritional regimens. The progressive implementation of nutritional approaches in clinical practice has made it necessary to infer more about some of the nutritional NTs in neuropsychiatry. However, the importance of the intake of nutritional NTs requires further understanding, since there are no prior significant studies about their bioavailability, clinical significance, and effects on nerve cells. Interventional strategies supported by evidence should be encouraged.
... It is traditionally used in the treatment of depression, obesity, insomnia, fibromyalgia, migraine, and it improves cognitive functions [30,31]. It is also used for aphrodisia and antibiotic purposes as well as a remedy for diarrhoea, vomiting and stomach aches [32]. Phytochemical studies indicated the presence of glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins and coumarins in the leaf extract of the plant [33]. ...
Ethnopharmacological Relevance: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in three regions of the country (two rural and one urban), using a questionnaire focussing on anti-diarrheal therapeutic habits. Methodology: Information about the plants has been recorded (local name, organs or part(s) of the plant used, therapeutic indications, harvesting methods, methods of administration, side effects, etc.). Collection of the plants was done in collaboration with traditional practitioners and identification of the specimens was conducted at the National Floristic Center (Ivory coast). During the ethnobotanical survey, twelve traditional healers and nine breeders were interviewed which all declared to treat diarrhoea with plants. During this survey, twenty-seven species belonging to eighteen different families of plants were reported for anti-diarrhoeal use in humans or animals. They were all harvested on the field and a herbarium of each species was prepared in duplicate, one stored at the National Floristic Centre of the Felix Houphouët-Boigny University and the other at the Pasteur Institute of Ivory coast. Results: Decoction was the most common mode of preparation used by practionioners and the oral route remained also the main way of administration of plants by healers. These plants are also used in other countries for the same or other purpose. Conclusion: This study shows that traditional medicinal plants play an important role in the treatment of diarrhoea in Ivory coast. It provides basis for future studies to assess, biological and chemical potential of these plants.
... A medical food formulation comprised of G. simplicifolia containing high concentrations of 5-HTP is thought to be effective for serotonin-related disorders [8,9], including depression [10] and young subjects with high levels of romantic stress [11]. Further uses of G. simplicifolia seed extracts include the treatment of insomnia, migraine, headache, and the regulation of appetite leading to weight reduction in obese patients, as well as the regulation of mood, memory, and many other functions [12,13]. No scientific report regarding the in vivo antidepressant activity of G. simplicifolia extract has been published. ...
... These results confirm the anxiolytic effects of Trema guineensis. They are to be compared with the work of Nsour, who in a similar study showed the anxiolytic effect of Rauvolfia serpentina; from Aidee who highlighted the anxiolytic effects of the ethanolic extracts of Argemone mexicana; from Carla et al who demonstrated anxiolytic properties of aqueous extracts of Salvia miltiorrhiza in rats; Charles and Carnevale, who showed anxiolytic properties of extracts of Maerua angolensis in mice and Griffonia simplicifolia in rat.[17][18][19][20][21] The anxiolytic effect of the hydro ethanolic leaves from Trema guineensis could be due to the presence of alkaloids among the compounds of Trema guineensis. ...
Background: Objective was to study the anxiolytic activity of hydro ethanolic extract of Trema guineensis.Methods: Male swiss albino mice were used. Hydro ethanolic extract of Trema guineensis was administered in the doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg/kg IP hole board (HB), open field (OF), elevated plus maze (EPM) tests were used for determination of anxiolytic activity.Results: The hydro ethanolic extract of Trema guineensis significantly increased the number and duration of head poking in HB test. The extract also significantly increased the time spent and the number of entries in open arm in EPM. In OFT, the extract showed significant increase in number of rearing, assisted rearing and the squares crossed.Conclusions: In the present study, Trema guineensis exhibited anxiolytic activity which might be attributed to its phytoconstituents like alkaloid, steroid and triterpenes. Since Trema guineensis is ubiquitous and abundantly grown, it could be a fairly economical therapeutic agent for management of anxiety disorders.
... A medical food formulation comprised of G. simplicifolia containing high concentrations of 5-HTP is thought to be effective for serotonin-related disorders [8,9], including depression [10] and young subjects with high levels of romantic stress [11]. Further uses of G. simplicifolia seed extracts include the treatment of insomnia, migraine, headache, and the regulation of appetite leading to weight reduction in obese patients, as well as the regulation of mood, memory, and many other functions [12,13]. Other constituents of this plant are the β-carboline alkaloid derivative griffonine and other alkaloids, some of which show potential in vitro activity against HepG2 cells [14]. ...
Background: Griffonia simplicifolia Baill. (Caesalpiniaceae) is a medicinal plant whose seeds are widely used in traditional medicine for their high content of 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP), a direct precursor and enhancer of the activity of the brain hormone serotonin (5-HT). The plant extracts are used in dietary supplements aimed to alleviate serotonin-related disorders. Methods: In order to characterize the chemical components of G. simplicifolia seeds and their identity, we used a combined methodology by using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS for the qualitative and quantitative determination of the N-containing compounds, GC-FID and GC-MS for the characterization of the major fatty acids, and DNA fingerprinting based on PCR-RFLP for the unequivocal identification of the plant. Results: 5-HTP was the most representative compound, followed by lower percentages of the β-carboline alkaloid derivative griffonine and other alkaloids. Fatty acids were dominated by the unsaturated fatty acids linoleic acid and oleic acid, followed by the saturated fatty acids stearic and palmitic acids. PCR analysis of the internal transcribed spacer amplified sequence showed a major band at about 758 bp, whereas the PCR-RFLP analysis of this sequence using three different restriction enzymes (MspI, HhaI, and HaeIII) generated a specific fingerprinting useful for the plant identification. Conclusions: The combined chemical and molecular analysis of G. simplicifolia provided an interesting integrated approach for the unequivocal identification of commercial G. simplicifolia seeds.
... C'est par exemple le cas de l'étude des Prs Hinz Marty et al., 2012, selon laquelle ses propriétés anti-dépressives seraient équivalentes au placebo, (170). Sans tenir compte de la composition de l'extrait, l'étude des Prs Carnevale G. et al., Juillet 2011, indique qu'un extrait de graines de Griffonia simplicifolia exerce une activité anxiolytique chez le rat, (172). ...
De tout temps et dans de nombreuses cultures, l’Homme a cherché dans son environnement, et plus particulièrement dans les plantes, les moyens de se soigner. Aujourd’hui, même si notre médecine moderne a permis l’émergence d’un arsenal thérapeutique efficace, la phytothérapie connait un regain d’intérêt. Cette thèse a pour but de constituer une aide utile à l’usage du praticien souhaitant conseiller la phytothérapie comme traitement de l’insomnie. Nous avons ainsi fait un rappel de l’architecture et de la physiologie du sommeil ainsi que des différents types d’insomnies. Rappel suivi d’un retour en arrière sur les usages de drogues végétales dans les médecines traditionnelles. Nous avons abordé le rôle du pharmacien et son conseil, et présenté l’état de nos connaissances sur les principales drogues végétales disponibles et indiquées dans le traitement de l’insomnie. En plus de présenter ces différentes drogues végétales, nous nous sommes efforcés de confirmer les propriétés qui leurs sont traditionnellement attribuées. Nous avons ainsi compilé un grand nombre d’études scientifiques qui ont permis de citer de nombreux principes actifs, mécanismes d’action, et de confirmer l’efficacité de tel ou tel extrait de drogue végétale. Nous avons aussi regroupé les effets indésirables, cas de toxicité, intéractions et contreindications citées dans la littérature. De plus cette étude s’est étendue aux drogues permettant de traiter des facteurs importants souvent associés à l’insomnie : anxiété, dépression ou encore fatigue diurne.
... Исследований эффективности экстракта семян гриффонии на настроение и поведение пока немного. В эксперименте экстракт обнаруживал свойства анксиолитика, что может способствовать его использованию в лечения тревожных расстройств у людей [35]. Получены интересные данные о применении экстракта семян гриффонии у лиц, переживающих острый психологический стресс, причем положительный результат терапии ассоциировался с повышением активности серотонинергической системы [36]. ...
Psychosomatic and behavioral changes before menstruation, perceived by the majority of women violate daily activities, relationships with the environment and quality of life, becoming a disease by the name of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The etiology of PMS remains unclear and concise, universal diagnostic criteria are missing, which leads to the lack of effective diagnosis and therapy. Hormone therapy of the PMS is one of the leading methods to eliminate the symptoms that occur in the luteal phase, but it has some limitations, and sometimes causes side effects that negate the benefits of its application. Psychotropic drugs are the drugs of choice for premenstrual dysphoric disorder, but their long-term use is generally not recommended because of the possibility of addiction and the occurrence of adverse reactions. The research for relevant means of reducing the severity or eliminating the symptoms of PMS, not only among drugs, but also among the means of herbal medicine and non-drug methods of exposure remains important.
... Each animal was placed at the centre of the illuminated compartment, facing one of the dark areas. The time spent in light and dark places, as well as the number of entries in each space, was recorded for 5 min (Carnevale G et al., 2011;Crawley J et al., 1980). ...
To evaluate the anxiolytic and antidepressant activity of saponin fraction of Trichopus zeylanicus (SFTZ) at 75,150 and 300 mg/kg. Anxiolytic activities of SFTZ were assayed by elevated plus maze method, light-dark test, and antidepressant activities were assayed by tail suspension test and force swimming test on mice. The various doses of SFTZ 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg, i. p have shown significant (***p< 0.001) increase in percentage of entries in open arm and time spent in open arm. Similarly it has also shown increased time spent in light box and decreased time in dark box significantly (***p< 0.001). In antidepressant study SFTZ at various doses of 75,150 and 300 mg/kg, i.p. have shown significantly (***p< 0.001) increased in immobility time in forced swimming and tail suspension method of antidepressant activity in mice. The present study confirmed that SFTZ 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg has shown promising anxiolytic and antidepressant activities. INTRODUCTION Environmental stress is one of the factors of anxiety in daily life. Stress causes disturb sleep, depression, anxiety, irritability, fatigue and lethargy. According to WHO, approximately millions people suffer from mental and behavioural disorder. Anxiety may occur without a cause, or it may occur based on a real situation but may be out of proportion to what would normally be expected. WHO has estimated that 80% of all the global inhabitants rely on traditional system of medicine for their primary health needs and these systems are largely plant based (Reynolds EH, 2003). The Kannikars are predominant hill tribes of Agasthiyamalai biosphere, Western Ghats and Tamilnadu. Traditionally the Kannikars are well known about the plant uses. Trichopus zeylanicus Gaertn is a perennial herb, belongs to the family Trichopodaceae popularly known as "Arogyapacha" or "Arokyapachilai" in Corresponding Author
An investigation into the corrosion inhibition properties of L-tryptophan (TP) and 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-OH-TP) for mild steel in a 1.0 M HCl acidic medium was conducted using experimental and theoretical methods....
Since ancient times, medicinal plants have been a universal source of biologically active substances with high potential for the treatment of various diseases and disorders. For centuries, traditional communities have often relied on medicinal plants to treat health problems. Therefore, accurate information is required and knowledge about traditional medicinal plants requires evaluation, and great attention should be given to the possible integration of these plants as therapeutic agents or as complements to conventional pharmacological therapies in the healthcare system. Recently, Griffonia simplicifolia (DC.) Baill., initially used as a holistic remedy, has attracted attention from many researchers and consumers because of its multiple health-promoting effects. This growing interest prompted us to give an updated review of the botanical, geographical, historical, and therapeutic potentials of Griffonia simplicifolia (DC.) Baill. in terms of its in vitro and in vivo health effects, nutritional uses, and possible applications in line with biodiversity and sustainability concepts. This paper also presents a quantitative research analysis of the published studies related to this plant that are available in the literature. To retrieve the publications related to this plant, a bibliographic search was carried out using the Scopus database. The bibliometric data were extracted and processed using VOSviewer software (v.1.6.16, 2020). Technological possible applications in terms of patents request presented was also performed. A total of 1386 publications, from the year 1970 to the year 2021, were obtained by the literature search, and these had been collectively cited 38,805 times. The large amount of literature data available documents the interest in this plant’s use as a tool for integrating traditional holistic healing approach, e.g., using plants, herbs, and holistic remedies, into the healthcare system as supporting tools and/or therapeutic agents, which is a current worldwide challenge.
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is a chemical precursor of serotonin, which synthesizes melatonin and serotonin in animals and regulates mood, sleep, and behavior. Tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) uses tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) as a cofactor to hydroxylate L-tryptophan (L-Trp) to 5-HTP, and the low catalytic activity of TPH limits the rate of hydroxylation of L-Trp. In this study, the catalytic mechanism and structural features of L-Trp-TPH1-BH4 were investigated, and the catalytic activity was improved using a rational design strategy. Then the S337A/F318Y beneficial mutation was obtained. Molecular dynamics simulations showed that the S337A/F318Y mutant formed a salt bridge with TPH1 while forming an additional hydrogen bond with the substrate indole ring, stabilizing the indole ring and enhancing the binding affinity of the variant to L-Trp. As a result, the yield of 5-HTP was increased by 2.06-fold, resulting in the production of 0.91 g/L of 5-HTP. The rational design of the TPH structure to improve the hydroxylation efficiency of L-Trp offers the prospect of green production of 5-HTP.
Com o aumento da prevalência de Transtornos Mentais Comuns a sociedade passou a aderir o uso de tratamentos não medicamentosos, optando pelo uso da medicina popular, principalmente pelo seu princípio ser não farmacológico e de certa forma ser mais nocivo ao organismo, e para o Transtorno da Compulsão Alimentar o uso mais encontrado é da Griffonia Simplicifolia é uma planta que contém o 5-HTP que é um precursor da serotonina (5-HT) e da melatonina (MLT), é encontrada na África Ocidental, o seu uso está relacionado a melhora de humor, regulação do sono e perda de peso. Diante o contexto apresentado, o presente artigo tem por objetivo apresentar a relação do tratamento da fitoterapia como coadjuvante no transtorno da compulsão alimentar. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, realizada entre janeiro e março do ano de 2022, embasado na estratégia PICo, onde P- representa um acrônimo para Paciente ou Problema (Compulsão Alimentar), I- Intervenção (uso de fitoterápicos no tratamento do transtorno da compulsão alimentar), Co- Contexto (tratamento com fitoterápicos). Foi realizada a busca na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), utilizando os Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DeCS): “Fitoterapia”, “Griffonia” e “Transtorno da Compulsão Alimentar’’, assim foi utilizado 25 artigos para compor essa revisão. O uso da fitoterapia é, portanto, uma importante aliada para o tratamento de diversos transtornos. O uso da medicina popular é de grande ajuda quando utilizada corretamente e prescrita por um profissional qualificado.
We consume food not simply for energy, but also to produce neurotransmitters. Foods include naturally occurring chemicals that can have a substantial influence on the human neurological system. Learning about the significance of nutrition in brain development: The brain increases dramatically during the first 1000 days of life, increasing in size and specialization while losing its ability to adapt. The neurotransmitters acetylcholine (ACh), glutamate, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are among them, as are the biogenic amines dopamine, serotonin (5-HT), and histamine. The increased use of dietary approaches into neuropsychiatric clinical practice necessitates a better knowledge of some of these dietary neurotransmitters (NTs). NTs have been discovered in animal food, fruits, edible plants, roots, and botanicals. These molecules can be found naturally as by-products of essential metabolic processes and ecological interactions, or they can be synthesized through regulated or uncontrolled food technology processes. These natural food products can benefit brain health, and adding them into daily life intake may result in a reduction in different neuropsychiatric and neurological dysfunctions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and depression.KeywordsNutritionFood productsNeurotransmittersBrain health
Objective: The aim of the present work was to evaluate the anxiolytic effect of hydroalcoholic extract of leaves from Rauvolfia vomitoria in rat. Materials and Methods: The hole-board test, elevated plus-maze paradigm and open field test, were studied to assess the anxiolytic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of leaves from Rauvolfia vomitoria. The extract of Rauvolfia vomitoria (5, 10, and 25 mg/kg, i.p.) and diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.) were administered 30 min before the tests. Results: The results showed that extract of R.V (10 and 25 mg/kg, i.p) significantly increased the number and duration of head poking in the hole-board test. In the elevated plus-maze, the extract significantly increased the exploration of the open arm in similar way to that of diazepam. At a dose of 10 and 25 mg/kg i.p. the extract significantly increased both the time spent in and the entries into the open arm by rat. Further, in the open field test, the extract significantly increased rearing, assisted rearing, and number of squares traversed, all of which are demonstrations of exploratory behavior. Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that a hydroalcoholic extract of Rauvolfia vomitoria leaves may possess an anxiolytic effect.
Certain probiotics can regulate the host’s neurobehavioral function through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. However, screening these probiotics is mainly carried out in animal models, which is costly and inefficient. Herein, a putative enterochromaffin cell line (RIN14B) was used as an in vitro pre-screening model, 30 bacterial strains were tested for the bacteria-stimulated tryptophan hydroxylase 1 gene (Tph1) expression and 5-hydroxytryptophan/5-hydroxytryptamine secretion. All strains were further validated for their neurobehavioral effects in chronic stress-induced depressive mice. Using partial least squares (PLS) modeling of in vitro and in vivo dataset, we found that the level of Tph1 mRNA in RIN14B significantly correlated with the performance of forced swim test and sucrose preference test, and serum corticosterone level in chronically stressed mice. Four strains were identified as the best candidates among 30 strains using principal component analysis on all in vivo measures, and unsurprisingly, three of them could enhance the Tph1 expression in RIN14B, which further proved the RIN14B-based screening method (especially the detection of bacteria-stimulated Tph1 mRNA) has good predictive validity and screening efficiency for strain’s antidepressant-like capacity. Collectively, this study provides a novel in vitro method for screening probiotics (or other related bioproducts) with antidepressant-like potential.
L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is both a drug and a natural component of some dietary supplements. 5-HTP is produced from tryptophan by tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH), which is present in two isoforms (TPH1 and TPH2). Decarboxylation of 5-HTP yields serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) that is further transformed to melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine). 5-HTP plays a major role both in neurologic and metabolic diseases and its synthesis from tryptophan represents the limiting step in serotonin and melatonin biosynthesis. In this review, after an overlook at the main natural sources of 5-HTP, the chemical analysis and synthesis, biosynthesis and microbial production of 5-HTP by molecular engineering will be described. The physiological effects of 5-HTP are discussed in both animal studies and human clinical trials. The physiological role of 5-HTP in the treatment of depression, anxiety, panic, sleep disorders, obesity, myoclonus and serotonin syndrome are also discussed. 5-HTP toxicity and the occurrence of toxic impurities present in tryptophan and 5-HTP preparations are also discussed.
A series of compounds generated by ring expansion/opening and molecular elongation/simplification of the 1,3-dioxolane scaffold were prepared and tested for binding affinity at 5-HT 1A R and α 1 adrenoceptors. The compounds with greater affinity were selected for further functional studies. N-((2,2-diphenyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)methyl)-2-(2-methoxyphenoxy)ethan-1-ammonium hydrogen oxalate (12) emerged as highly potent full agonist at the 5-HT 1A R (pKi 5-HT 1A = 8.8; pD 2 = 9.22, %E max = 92). The pharmacokinetic data in rats showed that the orally administered 12 has a high biodistribution in the brain compartment. Thus, 12 was further investigated in-vivo, showing an anxiolytic and antidepressant effect. Moreover, in the formalin test, 12 was able to decrease the late response to the noxious stimulus, indicating a potential use in the treatment of chronic pain.
We report for the first time that 5-hydroxytryptophan can be synthesized in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by heterologously expressing prokaryotic phenylalanine 4-hydroxylase or eukaryotic tryptophan 3/5-hydroxylase, together with enhanced synthesis of MH4 or BH4 cofactors. The innate DFR1 gene in the folate synthesis pathway was found to play pivotal roles in 5-hydroxytryptophan synthesis.
The aim of this study was to assess the effects of a phyto complex on menopausal symptoms.
A total of 151 women aged 42-67 years were enrolled. They were in spontaneous or surgical menopause by at least 12 months, reporting symptoms referable to the climacteric syndrome. Two validated and standardized tests were given to the whole sample at the entrance of the study (T0) and after 6 months of treatment (T6): the Greene Climacteric Scale (GCS) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Interim evaluations were carried out at 1-3 months (T1 and T3) on five symptoms selected from the GCS. The phyto complex was given to each enrolled woman, from the T0 to T6 time-points, for a total of 180 days.
At the T0 time-point, the average scores were: GCS, 28.98 (standard deviation [SD] ± 10.71); BDI, 14.48 (SD ± 6.5). At the T1 time-point, five parameters of the GCS were assessed with a reduction of 36.25% in symptoms (5.69, SD ± 3.53). At the T6 time-point the assessment was completed: average GCS results were 11.54 (SD ± 8.01) with a 60.17% improvement; and average BDI results were 6.11 (SD ± 4.6) with a 58.91% improvement in the depressive symptoms.
The phyto complex under consideration is an effective tool to counter, in a quick and long-lasting manner, the most common and nagging symptoms of the climacteric syndrome, such as hot flushes, insomnia and depression.
© 2015 The Authors. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research © 2015 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Abstract: The aim of this review is to provide a summary on multidisciplinary scientific information obtained from medicinal plants used worldwide to treat anxiety, focusing on pharmacological and clinical studies. The bibliographical investigation was carried out by consulting five peer-reviewed worldwide database publications for references, and patents. The information gathered on plants with attributed anxiolytic properties are presented as follows: (1) plant extracts with anxiolytic properties evaluated in animal models; (2) plants with clinical trials; (3) identified active compounds in plants that have been assayed in animal models; (4) mechanism of action of anxiolytic plant extracts and compounds; and (5) registered patents for anxiolytic plant preparations. We recorded 112 plant species belonging to 63 botanical families for which the anxiolytic properties had been tested in animal models. Eleven plant species to treat general anxiety disorders as well as eleven species to treat anxiety-associated conditions, had been documented by clinical trials. Thirty-three registers for active compounds belonging to five general types of secondary metabolites had also been recorded. The mechanism of action at the central nervous system level had been determined in 33 plant species, either in their extracts or isolated compounds. Forty-seven patent registrations for plant preparations to be used for the treatment of anxiety were included.
The aim of this review is to provide a summary on multidisciplinary scientific information obtained from medicinal plants used worldwide to treat anxiety, focusing on pharmacological and clinical studies. The bibliographical investigation was carried out by consulting five peer-reviewed worldwide database publications for references, and patents. The information gathered on plants with attributed anxiolytic properties are presented as follows: (1) plant extracts with anxiolytic properties evaluated in animal models; (2) plants with clinical trials; (3) identified active compounds in plants that have been assayed in animal models; (4) mechanism of action of anxiolytic plant extracts and compounds; and (5) registered patents for anxiolytic plant preparations. We recorded 112 plant species belonging to 63 botanical families for which the anxiolytic properties had been tested in animal models. Eleven plant species to treat general anxiety disorders as well as eleven species to treat anxiety-associated conditions, had been documented by clinical trials. Thirty-three registers for active compounds belonging to five general types of secondary metabolites had also been recorded. The mechanism of action at the central nervous system level had been determined in 33 plant species, either in their extracts or isolated compounds. Forty-seven patent registrations for plant preparations to be used for the treatment of anxiety were included.
In this study, the effect of Matricaria recutita L. essential oil (MEO) on the central nervous system (CNS) of mice was investigated using some behavioral methods. Chemical profiling both by GC and GC-MS analyses of the hydrodistilled essential oil of M. recutita revealed α-bisabolol oxide A (28%), α-bisabolol oxide B (17.1%), (Z)-β-Farnesene (15.9%) and α-bisabolol (6.8%) as the main components. Changes induced by MEO (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) and reference drug caffeine (25 mg/kg) in spontaneous locomotor activities and motor coordinations of mice were investigated by activity cage measurements and Rota-Rod tests, respectively. Open field, social interaction and elevated plus-maze tests were applied to assess the emotional state of the animals. Further, tail-suspension test was performed for evaluating the effect of MEO on depression levels of mice. As a result, at 50 and 100 mg/kg, MEO significantly increased the numbers of spontaneous locomotor activities, exhibited anxiogenic effect in the open field, elevated plus-maze and social interaction tests and decreased the immobility times of animals in tail suspension tests. The falling latencies in Rota-Rod tests did not change. This activity profile of MEO was similar to the typical psychostimulant caffeine. The exact mechanism of action underlying this stimulant-like effect should be clarified with further detailed studies.
The seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia Baill. are rich in 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), a direct precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin. In the present study we investigated the influence of the plant extract on male sexual behavior. The seed extract was orally administered to Sprague-Dawley male rats at three dose levels (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg) both acutely and subchronically (daily for 9 days). Mating test with receptive female rats was performed 60 min after the acute treatment or the last dose when repetitively administered. Mount, intromission and ejaculation latencies and post-ejaculatory interval were recorded. Food intake and body weight were measured over the 9-day period of treatment. Microdialysis technique was used to detect the extracellular levels of serotonin (5-HT) and its metabolite 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) in rat brain following the acute administration of the extract dosed at 100mg/kg. The acute treatment significantly increased mount latency (at any dosage), intromission and ejaculation latencies (at 100 mg/kg) and post-ejaculatory interval (at 50 and 100 mg/kg). On the contrary the subchronic treatment failed to exert a significant influence on copulatory behavior. The daily administration of the extract dosed at 50 and 100 mg/kg for 9 days significantly reduced food intake and body weight. Finally in the microdialysis experiments we found a dramatic increase in 5-HT and its metabolite 5-HIAA.
Analysis of the defensive behaviors of wild rats to an inescapable approaching threat stimulus (the experimenter) indicated a pattern of freezing to distant stimuli, giving way to vocalization, jumps, and jump-attacks at shorter defensive distances. Comparisons of the defensive reactions of wild-trapped and laboratory-bred wild rats to a variety of threatening stimuli, in escapable as well as inescapable situations, indicated that the two wild strains were similar and consistently more defensive than laboratory rats to both human and conspecific threat stimuli. These results thus suggest that the defensive behaviors of rats have been substantially reduced during the process of domestication, with relatively little of this reduction being attributable to housing in standard laboratory conditions.
5-Hydroxy-l-tryptophan (5-HTP) has been found in high concentration (6–10% fr. wt.) in the mature seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a West African legume of reputed physiological activity, and in lower concentration in other parts of the plant. An enzyme system capable of hydroxylating l-tryptophan has been identified in various tissues. 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT or serotonin) has been found in concentrations of up to 0·2% (dry wt.) in the pods and in lower concentration in the leaves of mature plants. Indole-3-acetyl-aspartic acid (IAAA) and 5′-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (5-HIAA) were among other indoles detected.
This chapter discusses methods used to measure amines and their metabolites in biological tissues and a comparative examination of amine synthesis, storage, and degradation in invertebrates and vertebrates. The emphasis is on the different metabolic routes used by a number of organisms to inactivate aminergic neurotransmitters because of extensive differences in monamine catabolism in the different phyla. It is believed that these differences in catabolic routes between invertebrates and vertebrates complicate attempts to pharmacologically manipulate monoamine systems in invertebrate animals with drugs developed for mammalian models and contribute to the many varied responses. Monoamines have diverse and important roles as both stimulators and inhibitors of cellular mechanisms. They can act as neurotransmitters, neuromodulators, neurohormones, and true hormons. The greatest differences between the monoamine systems determined in the various phyla are found among the enzymatic routes used for the inactivation of amines. The presence of diverse inactivation mechanisms for amines in invertebrate animals used as models for studies of monoamine neuronal and neuroendocrine systems has profound implications.
A simple system is described to analyze the possibility that increased exploratory behavior is an index for the anxiolytic effects of benzodiazepines in laboratory rodents. Mice were allowed free run in a two-chambered arena, where two-thirds of the area was illuminated and one-third was darkened. The two chambers were separated by a black partition equipped with photocells across the opening, and the entire cage rested on an Animex activity monitor. Transitions across the partition between the light and dark chambers, and total Animex locomotor activity, were increased by clonazepam and chlordiazepoxide, in dose-dependent ranges consistent with previously reported behavior models. The increased exploratory activity with benzodiazepines does not appear to be a non-specific increase in general motor activity, as locomotion in clonazepam and chlordiazepoxide treated mice placed in a bare, undifferentiated cage was not significantly different from vehicle treated mice.
At present Griffonia simplicifolia is used in food supplement aimed to treat mood disorders as well as to reduce food intake and body weight. The plant has gained increasing interest for its high content in 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5-HTP) particularly in the seed. The present study was designed to evaluate the influence of a seed extract of the plant, dosed at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, on the sexual behavior of ovariectomized hormone-primed rats after acute and subchronic treatment. The single administration of G. simplicifolia significantly reduced lordosis response and increased rejection behavior in female rats treated with the highest dose while it did not influence proceptive behaviors. On the other hand the subchronic administration of the extract significantly reduced proceptivity but not receptivity, and increased rejection behavior. All the tested dosages were able to markedly decrease food intake and body weight after a 9-day treatment. Taken together the present results, possibly ascribed to increased levels of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) in the brain, suggest a cautious administration of the plant extract owing to its negative influence on female sexual behavior.
The present review gives an overview on the serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) system, its receptors and their relationship to central nervous system physiology and disorders. Additionally, we also introduce the recent knowledge about the 5-HT receptor ligands in preclinical research, clinical trials and as approved drugs.
The effects of known anxiolytic agents and putative anxiolytic agents were assessed in mice in a fully automated 2-compartment light/dark test. Significant increases in lit area activities (e.g., time spent in the lit area, locomotor activity, rearing behavior) were used as possible indicators of anxiolytic-like action. The measurement found most consistent and useful for assessing antianxiety-like activity was the time mice spent in the lit area. The benzodiazepine, diazepam; the 5-HT1A agent, ipsapirone; and the 5-HT3 receptor antagonist, ondansetron, produced significant anxiolytic-like activity between doses of 1.0 to 10.0 mg/kg, 17.8 to 31.6 mg/kg, and 0.0001 to 1.0 mg/kg respectively. The 5-HT1A receptor agonist, 8-OH DPAT, also exhibited anxiolytic-like action between doses of 0.0005 to 3.16 mg/kg. In contrast, the peripheral 5-HT3 receptor agonist, N-phenylbiguanide; the antidepressant, imipramine; the neuroleptic, chlorpromazine; and the CNS stimulant, S(+)-amphetamine, did not display antianxiety-like activity. The positive results obtained for the three types of compounds (benzodiazepine, 5-HT1A, and 5-HT3) indicate that this fully automated light/dark apparatus may be useful for identifying known and putative anxiolytic agents.
Parachlorophenylalanine, an inhibitor of tryptophan hydroxylase, induced a virtually total disappearance of serotonin-immunoreactivity in the hypothalamus of the cat. After intrahypothalamic injection of 5-hydroxytryptophan, an immediate precursor of serotonin in cats pretreated with parachlorophenylalanine, serotonin-immunoreactivity was detected in many fibers surrounding the injection site. Furthermore, when 5-hydroxytryptophan was injected with inhibitor of monoamine oxidase, a large number of small neurons immunoreactive to serotonin was identified in many discrete regions: the anterior and lateral hypothalamic areas, preoptic area, suprachiasmatic nucleus, dorsal hypothalamic area, dorsomedial nucleus, posterior hypothalamic area and nucleus of the fields of Forel. Serotonin-immunoreactivity was also evident in the thick axon bundles in the lateral hypothalamus. The distribution pattern of these cells was quite similar to that of aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase, which catalyses the conversion of 5-hydroxytryptophan to serotonin and that of l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine to dopamine. However, we failed to demonstrate serotonin-immunoreactivity in these parvocellular neurons without monoamine oxidase inhibitor. It is possible that 5-hydroxytryptophan is decarboxylated to serotonin by aromatic l-amino acid decarboxylase but rapidly degraded by monoamine oxidase-A, the enzyme which preferentially deaminates serotonin. In contrast, serotonin-immunostaining was always demonstrable after intrahypothalamic injection of 5-hydroxytryptophan without monoamine oxidase inhibitor in magnocellular neurons located in the ventrolateral posterior hypothalamus and which contain exclusively monoamine oxidase-B and histidine decarboxylase.
Ten outpatients suffering from anxiety states (Anxiety Disorders: DSM-III) were treated with L-5-hydroxytryptophan and carbidopa. A significant reduction in anxiety was observed on three different anxiety scales. It is suggested that 5-HT systems may be involved in the mediation of anxiety.
It has been suggested that "phylogenetically prepared fear reactions" may be useful behavioral assays of the effects of anxiolytic agents. In the present experiments, rats' natural proclivity to stay near the perimeters of a novel environment (i.e., thigmotaxis) was suppressed by anxiolytic agents (diazepam 1-5 mg/kg; chlordiazepoxide 1-10 mg/kg; pentobarbital 1-10 mg/kg), with a relative potency that was similar to their relative potency in the treatment of human anxiety. Furthermore, when effects on general activity were factored out using analysis of covariance, the test also showed some degree of drug-class specificity, since neither d-amphetamine, morphine, nor chlorpromazine produced this anti-thigmotaxic effect. These results support an earlier report that thigmotaxis may be a useful test for anxiolytic activity in rats.
The aim of the present study is to examine by immunohistochemistry whether exogenous L-5-hydroxytryptophan (L-5HTP) is decarboxylated in neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNC) and locus coeruleus (LC) of the rat. In normal rats, neurons of the SNC and LC stained intensely for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase (AADC). No serotonin (5HT)-positive cells were found in the two regions of the normal rats. In rats that were intraperitoneally injected with L-5HTP alone, the SNC neurons stained deeply for 5HT, but the LC neurons showed only a faint staining for 5HT. In rats that intraperitoneally received both a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor and L-5HTP, when compared with the L-5HTP-injected rats, the LC neurons became much darker in 5HT staining, but the SNC neurons showed only a slight increase in 5HT staining. The present findings suggest that (i) AADC in dopaminergic neurons of the SNC and in noradrenergic neurons of the LC can catalyze the in vivo decarboxylation of exogenous L-5HTP to produce 5HT, and (ii) most of the newly produced 5HT in the LC neurons is rapidly degraded by endogenous MAO.
The study in an ethological perspective of inbred strains of mice offers a more accurate description of anxiety-related behavior. In this context, behavioral performances of the BALB/cByJ and C57BL/6J strains were systematically compared in the staircase test, the light/dark test and the elevated plus maze test. A rarely used variable, the latency of the first entry in the dark box, was also recorded in the light/dark test. A new statistical approach to this measure meant that specific avoidance strategies could be differentiated in the two strains. A study of the behavioral responses of the two strains given treatment with diazepam, a widely used anxiolytic compound, was also carried out. Results showed substantial differences between BALB/cByJ and C57BL/6J strains. C57BL/6J mice had high baseline activity and exploration of a new environment, suggesting a low level of anxiety. BALB/cByJ mice displayed defensive and protective behavior, with limited exploration of the new environment together with low locomotor activity. The response to diazepam was also different for each strain: C57BL/6J mice showed higher sensitivity to diazepam treatment than did BALB/cByJ mice.
This study reports the presence of noradrenergic (NA) neurons which are capable to take up 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and decarboxylate it to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT serotonin) in the kitten brain. After loading of 5-HTP and monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), we could demonstrate 5-HT-immunoreactivity (IR) not only in hypothalamic and midbrain dopaminergic (DA) cell bodies, but also in NA ones located in the pons and medulla oblongata of the new born kitten aged from 1 to 7 days. NA cell bodies could no longer show 5-HT-IR after this treatment in the kitten older than 1 month. On the other hand, 5-HT-IR in the ventrolateral posterior hypothalamic (VLPH) cells was very weak at birth and became more and more intense after 15 days of age. Finally, after loading of tryptophan (TP) and MAOI, 5-HTP uptake cells mentioned above did not express 5-HT-IR in the kitten brain.
Serotonergic dysfunction has been implicated in the aetiology of several psychiatric conditions, including depressive and anxiety disorders. Much of the evidence for the role of serotonin (5-HT) in these disorders comes from treatment studies with serotonergic drugs, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), 5-HT(1A) agonists and 5-HT antagonists. This review considers the place of these drugs in the treatment of panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Among these agents, the SSRIs stand out with proven efficacy in the treatment of a spectrum of disorders, such as depression, panic disorder, OCD and social phobia. They may also be a suitable treatment for GAD. 5-HT(1A) agonists have been used extensively for the treatment of depression and GAD but evidence of their efficacy in other anxiety disorders is equivocal. 5-HT antagonists are the least well studied of these agents: while they may have activity in depression, their efficacy has not been fully investigated in anxiety disorders. However, preliminary reports suggest that they may be useful as adjuvants to SSRIs in treatment-refractory OCD. The high incidence of comorbidity amongst psychiatric disorders means that pharmacotherapy that is effective against a range of disorders, such as the SSRIs, is of considerable use to clinicians. Future research into the biological mechanisms underlying such disorders is likely to further enhance pharmacotherapy. Copyright 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
5-Hydroxytryptophan (1) is a naturally occurring amino acid found in significant levels in seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia and used in the treatment of the numerous effects of serotonin deficiency syndrome. An HPLC method has been developed for the direct assay of 1 in seeds of G. simplicifolia which overcomes the problems associated with previous techniques. By optimising the solvent extraction procedures and the HPLC conditions, levels of 1 could be estimated following a single-step seed extraction. The chromatographic conditions, solvent system and the extraction technique developed make this method relatively simple, fast and efficient. Using the described methods, the highest ever levels of 1 (namely, 20.83% on a fresh weight basis) have been determined in seeds of G. simplicifolia obtained in Ghana.
The open field is a very popular animal model of anxiety-like behavior. An overview of the literature on the action elicited by effective or putative anxiolytics in animal subjected to this procedure indicates that classical treatments such as benzodiazepine receptor full agonists or 5-HT(1A) receptor full or partial agonists elicit an anxiolytic-like effect in this procedure in most cases (approximately 2/3). However, compounds (triazolobenzodiazepines such as adinazolam and alprazolam, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) that have a different spectrum of therapeutic efficacy in anxiety disorders such as panic attacks, generalized anxiety disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder were poorly effective as anxiolytics in the open field test, suggesting that this paradigm may not model features of anxiety disorders. The procedure is also relevant for the study of compounds endowed with anxiogenic effects, as such effects were detected after treatments with benzodiazepine receptor inverse agonists or with corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) receptor agonists.
Griffonia simplicifolia negatively affects sexual behavior in female rats Preliminary report of a simple animal behavior model for the anxiolytic effects of benzodiazepines
- G Carnevale
- Di Viesti
- V Zavatti
- M Benelli
- A Zanoli
Carnevale, G., Di Viesti, V., Zavatti, M., Benelli, A., Zanoli, P., 2010. Griffonia simplicifolia negatively affects sexual behavior in female rats. Phytomed., doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2010.02.010. Crawley, J., Goodwin, F.K., 1980. Preliminary report of a simple animal behavior model for the anxiolytic effects of benzodiazepines. Pharmacol. Biochem. Behav. 13, 167–170.