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Association Between Cinnamon Consumption and Risk of Cardiovascular Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Krittanawong, C, Isath, A, Scott, CZ, Wang, Z, Kaplin, S, Jneid, H, Lavie, CJ, Virani, SS
The American journal of medicine. 2022;(1):110-117
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cinnamon has been used as a traditional herbal medication for decades. Several studies have investigated cinnamon consumption and cardiovascular risk. So far, the evidence remains inconclusive. Thus, we aim to systematically review the currently available literature and quantify the evidence, if possible. METHODS We systematically searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception in 1966 through December 2020. The exposure of interest was cinnamon consumption, the outcome was cardiovascular risk defined as hemoglobin A1C, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). Two investigators independently reviewed the data. Conflicts were resolved through consensus. Random-effects meta-analyses were used. RESULTS Of 23 studies (1070 subjects), the included studies were heterogeneous, generally of very poor quality. We found no difference in LDL-c levels in patients who consumed cinnamon vs those who did not, with a weighted mean difference (WMD) of 0.38 (confidence interval [CI], -6.07-6.83). We also found no difference in HDL-c between the 2 groups with WMD 0.40 (CI, -1.14-1.94). In addition, we found no statistical differences in hemoglobin A1C between the 2 groups with WMD of 0.0 (CI, -0.44-0.45). CONCLUSIONS Our meta-analysis suggests that there is no association between cinnamon consumption and differences in LDL-c, HDL-c, and hemoglobin A1C levels. Further randomized control trials studies using a robust design with long-term cinnamon consumption are needed to further investigate any potential effect.
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Herbal medicines in functional dyspepsia-Untapped opportunities not without risks.
Gwee, KA, Holtmann, G, Tack, J, Suzuki, H, Liu, J, Xiao, Y, Chen, MH, Hou, X, Wu, DC, Toh, C, et al
Neurogastroenterology and motility. 2021;(2):e14044
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Contemporary treatments for functional dyspepsia have limitations. Herbal medicine has been suggested as adjunctive treatment. With growing scientific recognition and public interests, an in-depth review of this is timely. AIMS/PURPOSE To evaluate the therapeutic potential and problems that may be associated with the adoption of herbal medicines in functional dyspepsia. METHODS We reviewed the treatment landscape of functional dyspepsia and assessed the scientific community's interest in herbal medicine. Preclinical pharmacological and clinical trial data were reviewed for several herbal medicines available in the market. Challenges associated with adoption of herbal medicine in mainstream medicine were critically evaluated. RESULTS We found that herbal medicines frequently comprise a combination of herbs with multiple reported pharmacological effects on gastrointestinal motility and secretory functions, as well as cytoprotective and psychotropic properties. We identified a number of commercially available herbal products that have undergone rigorous clinical trials, involving large numbers of well-defined subjects, reporting both efficacy and safety for functional dyspepsia. Persisting concerns include lack of rigorous assessments for majority of products, toxicity, consistency of ingredients, dose standardizations, and quality control. We provide a quality framework for its evaluation. CONCLUSIONS We commend herbal medicine as a viable future option in managing functional dyspepsia. An attractive appeal of herbal medicine is the prospect to simultaneously target multiple pathophysiological mechanisms. Wider adoption and acceptance of herbal medicines in treatment algorithms of functional dyspepsia will require the application of the scientific rigor expected of chemical therapies, to all stages of their development and evaluation.
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Ayurvedic Herbal Preparation Supplementation Does Not Improve Metabolic Health in Impaired Glucose Tolerance Subjects; Observations from a Randomised Placebo Controlled Trial.
Esser, D, Matualatupauw, J, de Vos, RCH, Wehrens, R, van der Stappen, J, van der Meer, I, Afman, LA
Nutrients. 2021;(1)
Abstract
The increased usage of alternative Ayurvedic treatments as potential health-beneficial therapies emphasizes the importance of studying its efficacy in sound placebo-controlled intervention trials. An example of such a traditional Ayurvedic herbal preparation is Mohana Choorna, a mixture composed of 20 different herbs and used to prevent and treat type 2-diabetes (T2D). We studied the efficacy of "Mohana Choorna" on T2D-related parameters in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. In a double blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial, 19 overweight (BMI > 27 kg/m2) subjects aged 50-70 years with an impaired glucose tolerance received two four-week interventions, i.e., herbal or placebo with a four-week wash-out between interventions. HbA1c, glucose, insulin, triglycerides, cholesterol, blood pressure and augmentation index were measured before and after both interventions at fasting and during a glucose tolerance test. After both interventions, urine was collected to measure treatment exposure using LCMS-based metabolomics and whole genome gene-expression in adipose tissue of 13 subjects. The herbal intervention did not affect plasma glucose triglycerides, cholesterol, blood pressure or the augmentation index but showed a trend towards an increased insulin, HOMA-IR and postprandial insulin levels (p = 0.054, p = 0.056 and p = 0.095 respectively). An increase in expression of inflammation-related gene sets in adipose tissue was observed after the herbal intervention compared to placebo. Urine metabolomic analysis did not reveal a correlation of the presence of specific plant metabolites with "health markers". Our findings suggest that there is no substantiating evidence to claim that four weeks' use of the Ayurvedic herbal supplement Mohana Choorna beneficially affects glucose homeostasis.
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A Comparative Study to Evaluate Efficacy of Curcumin and Aloe Vera Gel along with Oral Physiotherapy in the Management of Oral Submucous Fibrosis: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Nerkar Rajbhoj, A, Kulkarni, TM, Shete, A, Shete, M, Gore, R, Sapkal, R
Asian Pacific journal of cancer prevention : APJCP. 2021;(S1):107-112
Abstract
UNLABELLED Rationale (Hypothesis): The antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,immunomodulatory and anti-tumorigenic properties of natural plant's extracts like aloe Vera and curcumin may produce beneficial therapeutic effects on OSMF patients and may lead to their symptomatic relief. Also, increase in the tissue elasticity with the help of oral physiotherapy excercises , would help in reinforcing increment in mouth opening. AIM: The aim of the study is to compare the efficacy of Curcumin gel with Aloe Vera gel when both the gel are supplemented along with oral physiotherapy in the management of OSMF. MATERIALS AND METHODS A study of parallel group trial design, using simple randomization technique, was conducted on confirmed cases of OSMF. Patients were divided into two groups, one group(30 patients) was given curcumin gel(Curenext) and other group (30 patients) aloe Vera gel (Aloe Vera 100% relief) and each group was asked to do same oral physiotherapy excercises supplementally. Follow-up was done for 6 weeks and patients were assessed on the basis of improvement in mouth opening and burning sensation at 2, 4, and 6 weeks. RESULTS There was an improvement in both the parameters at subsequent visits, but the Aloe Vera gel showed better improvement than curcumin gel in burning sensation after 6 weeks of treatment which was highly statistically significant p < 0.01. CONCLUSION Curcumin gel and Aloe Vera gel are effective in improving OSMF symptoms, but aloe Vera gel is more efficacious in burning sensation improvement without any side effects. Hence, we can advocate these drugs as adjuvant treatment in addition to the recommended treatment.
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Herbal immune-boosters: Substantial warriors of pandemic Covid-19 battle.
Khanna, K, Kohli, SK, Kaur, R, Bhardwaj, A, Bhardwaj, V, Ohri, P, Sharma, A, Ahmad, A, Bhardwaj, R, Ahmad, P
Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology. 2021;:153361
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Abstract
Current scenario depicts that world has been clenched by COVID-19 pandemic. Inevitably, public health and safety measures could be undertaken in order to dwindle the infection threat and mortality. Moreover, to overcome the global menace and drawing out world from moribund stage, there is an exigency for social distancing and quarantines. Since December, 2019, coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) have came into existence and up till now world is still in the state of shock.At this point of time, COVID-19 has entered perilous phase, creating havoc among individuals, and this has been directly implied due to enhanced globalisation and ability of the virus to acclimatize at all conditions. The unabated transmission is due to lack of drugs, vaccines and therapeutics against this viral outbreak. But research is still underway to formulate the vaccines or drugs by this means, as scientific communities are continuously working to unravel the pharmacologically active compounds that might offer a new insight for curbing infections and pandemics. Therefore, the topical COVID-19 situation highlights an immediate need for effective therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2. Towards this effort, the present review discusses the vital concepts related to COVID-19, in terms of its origin, transmission, clinical aspects and diagnosis. However, here, we have formulated the novel concept hitherto, ancient means of traditional medicines or herbal plants to beat this pandemic.
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Assessment of Passiflora incarnata L for conscious sedation of patients during the extraction of mandibular third molars: a randomized, split-mouth, double-blind, crossover study.
Christoffoli, MT, Bachesk, AB, Farah, GJ, Ferreira, GZ
Quintessence international (Berlin, Germany : 1985). 2021;(10):868-878
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of Passiflora incarnata L for the control of anxiety during third mandibular molar extraction and compare it to midazolam, the most used benzodiazepine in dentistry. METHOD AND MATERIALS The investigators implemented a prospective, randomized, double-blind, split-mouth study. The degree of anxiety of the patients was assessed before the surgical procedure. The surgeries took place in two sessions: one on each side of the hemi-mandible and, on each of them, the patient received one of the drugs, crosswise. Anxiety control was measured through physical parameters, at the following periods during the surgery: (1) immediately administration of anxiolytic medication, (2) 30 minutes after anxiolytic medication, (3) after extraoral antisepsis, (4) after local anesthesia, (5) during incision, (6) during osteotomy, (7) between osteotomy and odontosection, (8) during odontosection, (9) during surgical store curettage, (10) during suture, and (11) immediately after postoperative care guidelines. Lastly, the volunteers received a self-assessment form in order to report their experience. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon test. RESULTS The final sample was composed of 20 patients, with a mean age of 22.5 years. The results of the physical parameters showed statistically significant differences (P < .05) for certain times and physical parameters, especially heart rate (P = .036), which showed the highest control for Passiflora at time point (3). The undesirable effects reported by patients such as drowsiness, muscle relaxation, and dizziness were greater with benzodiazepine. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that Passiflora may be considered as an alternative to midazolam in controlling anxiety in dentistry. Future studies will focus on other benzodiazepines and herbal medicines.
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Herbal Medications Used to Ameliorate Cardiac Conditions.
Revell, MA, Pugh, MA
The Nursing clinics of North America. 2021;(1):123-136
Abstract
Herbs have been used for centuries to treat various diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Herbs may be used by clients exclusively for disease management or in combination with conventional medications. This article increases provider awareness of certain herbs and their potential use by clients, as well as their impact on the cardiovascular system. It is important for the advanced practice nurse to collect information related to herb use during history retrieval. This information should prompt the nurse to discuss possible benefits and side effects that may occur taking herbs in isolation or in combination with cardiovascular prescription medications.
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Ginger for Migraine.
Andrade, C
The Journal of clinical psychiatry. 2021;(6)
Abstract
Many preclinical and clinical studies have examined the potential benefits of ginger extracts for a range of medical disorders. Ginger has been found to reduce both pain and nausea and has therefore also been studied in the context of migraine headache. One randomized controlled trial (RCT) found that ginger was no better than placebo for the prevention of migraine episodes. One meta-analysis (pooled N = 227) found that, relative to placebo, ginger was associated with a higher proportion of patients who were pain free 2 hours after treatment (risk ratio [RR], 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-3.09; 2 RCTs). In this meta-analysis, relative to placebo, ginger reduced the risk of migraine-related nausea and vomiting (RR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.30-0.77; 3 RCTs) and was not associated with an increased risk of adverse events (RR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.46-1.41; 3 RCTs). No other RCT data are available. Such an evidence base is clearly too small for formal recommendations to be possible. It is suggested that raw ginger or proprietary ginger extracts may be useful as a home remedy for patients who experience an episode of migraine and who, for whatever reason, cannot take established first-line treatments for acute migraine. How ginger thus used compares with established treatments for migraine is presently unknown. Finally, it must be remembered that the chemical constituents of ginger will vary across source and extract; so, when an extract of ginger is studied, the findings of the study can be generalized only to that extract and, possibly, to other extracts with a similar composition.
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Punica granatum as a Source of Natural Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Agent: A Comprehensive Review on Related Investigations.
Jalali, A, Kiafar, M, Seddigh, M, Zarshenas, MM
Current drug discovery technologies. 2021;(2):207-224
Abstract
BACKGROUND The consumption of natural antioxidants is increasing due to the demand and tendency to natural foods. Punica granatum L. [Punicaceae] is a fruit with various bioactive ingredients. The effectiveness of this plant has been proved against various disorders such as hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, blood coagulation, infections, cancer, and dentistry. Among them, there are numerous researches on antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Subsequently, the present study aimed to compile a review of those properties to outline this herb as a possible natural antioxidant and preservative. METHODS Synchronically, keywords "Punica granatum" with antimicrobial, or antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant and radical scavenging were searched through "Scopus" database up to 31st September 2019. Papers focusing on agriculture, genetics, chemistry, and environmental sciences were excluded, and also related papers were collected. RESULTS Among 201 papers focusing on related activities, 111 papers have dealt with antioxidant activities focusing based on DPPH assay, 59 with antibacterial, on both gram+ and gram- bacteria, 24 with antifungal effects, mostly on Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans, and 7 papers with antiviral activities. There were about 50 papers focusing on in-vivo antioxidant activities of this plant. CONCLUSION Taken together, botanical parts of P. granatum have possessed notable radical scavenging and antimicrobial activities that, with these properties, this plant can be introduced as a natural, safe source of preservative and antioxidant. Accordingly, P. granatum can be applied as excipient with the aforementioned properties in the pharmaceutical and food industries.
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Effects of garlic supplementation on oxidative stress and antioxidative capacity biomarkers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Askari, M, Mozaffari, H, Darooghegi Mofrad, M, Jafari, A, Surkan, PJ, Amini, MR, Azadbakht, L
Phytotherapy research : PTR. 2021;(6):3032-3045
Abstract
Evidence suggests that garlic supplementation may have an effect on oxidative stress by augmenting the rate of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants and diminishing pro-oxidant enzymes. Given inconsistencies across studies, we aimed to systematically review the current literature and quantify the effects of garlic supplementation on oxidative stress. We conducted a systematic search with multiple databases (Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science) to find relevant articles published prior to October 2020. Results were reported as bias-corrected standardized mean difference (Hedges' g) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) using random-effects models. Cochrane's Q and I squared (I2 ) tests were used to determine heterogeneity among the studies included. Twelve randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Garlic doses ranged from 80 to 4,000 mg/day, and intervention duration varied between 2 and 24 weeks. Garlic supplementation increased serum level of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (Hedges' g: 2.77, 95% CI: 1.37 to 4.17, p < 0.001) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) (Hedges' g: 13.76, 95% CI: 4.24 to 23.29, p = 0.004), while it reduced the malondialdehyde serum level (MDA) (Hedges' g: -1.94, 95% CI: -3.17 to -0.70, p = 0.002). Due to limited data available, glutathione (GSH) was not considered for the current meta-analysis. The nonlinear dose-response effect of garlic supplementation was not observed with regard to serum TAC and MDA levels (TAC: p-nonlinearity = 0.398; MDA: p-nonlinearity = 0.488). Garlic supplementation appears to improve serum levels of TAC, MDA, and SOD. Garlic supplementation may be useful to reduce oxidative stress and related diseases. Future studies with large sample sizes and longer duration are required to confirm these findings.