homa hajimehdipoor

Aloe dry juice as a purgative agent is widely used in phytotherapy. In Iranian traditional medicine to decrease Aloe side effects, some plants are added, and this polyherbal formulation is named "Ayarij-e-Faiqra" (AF). Based on the anti-fertility properties of Aloe, this study investigates the anti-fertility effects of Aloe-based polyherbal formulation to find the impact of accompanying plants on the anti-fertility effects of Aloe. In this study, forty male rats were classified into the following groups: the control group, the sham group receiving only busulfan carrier solution (DMSO 50%) on days 1 and 21 via intraperitoneal injection, the busulfan group received intraperitoneally 10 mg/kg of busulfan on days 1 and 21, the Aloe group received 25 mg/kg of Aloe-dry juice, and the AF group was administered with 71 mg/kg (containing 25 mg/kg of Aloe dry juice). Treatment was performed by gavage for 56 days. Testis weight and histological alterations, sexual hormone levels (testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone), and classical and functional sperm parameters were examined. Our findings showed that AF negatively affects testicular tissue architecture and sperm quality such as count, motility, morphology, and viability which were accompanied by an imbalance of testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone hormones. In addition, reaction oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis increased in the sperm cells of the AF group while decreasing their mitochondrial membrane potential. The plants presented in the formulation of AF cannot cover the anti-fertility side effects of Aloe.

Echium amoenum Fisch. & C.A.Mey. has been used for the management of the common cold, inflammation, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. This study aimed to explore the anti-fatigue and antioxidant effects of aqueous extract of E. amoenum (AEEA) on a rat model of acute fatigue. After preparing for AEEA, 30 Wistar rats were divided into five groups of six animals. Group 1 received distilled water; Group 2 was treated with distilled water and underwent a forced swimming test (FST); Groups 3-5 rats were administered AEEA (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg), and subsequently underwent FST. Then, the levels of some biochemical parameters and oxidative stress markers were measured in the serum and liver tissues of rats. AEEA treatment significantly augmented the swimming time of rats compared to the control group. AEEA-treated animals had increased serum glucose and decreased serum urea levels. AEEA diminished serum activities of creatine phosphokinase (CPK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Treating the rats with AEEA activated superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and decreased total oxidant status (TOS) in serum. AEEA increased the levels of thiols and glutathione (GSH) as well as the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and CAT in the liver tissues. In the liver tissue, AEEA also induced the activity of SOD and reduced TOS. These results may suggest AEEA as a potential anti-fatigue natural product to ameliorate the adverse effects of acute fatigue on the body.

Asthma is a chronic airway inflammatory disease. Viola odorata has been traditionally used to treat inflammatory diseases. This study was conducted to explore the anti-inflammatory effects of V. odorata aqueous extract on a murine model of asthma. Forty-eight Balb/c female mice were divided into six groups of eight animals. The healthy controls received distilled water and other groups became asthmatic using ovalbumin. Then, one group received dexamethasone, and the extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) was administered to three groups for a week. Subsequently, the number of eosinophils, and the levels of interleukins 4, 5, and 13 were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples. Histopathological changes were analyzed in lung tissues. Eosinophils count and the levels of interleukins 4, 5, and 13 in BALF specimens significantly reduced. Hyperplasia of goblet cells, lymphoid tissue hyperplasia, and peribronchial and perivascular inflammations decreased in the extract-treated mice. The effects of V. odorata aqueous extract on all parameters were comparable with dexamethasone. The present study is the first report of anti-inflammatory activities of V. odorata aqueous extract in a mouse model of allergic asthma. Therefore, these data may suggest V. odorata as a promising drug to treat asthma-induced inflammation.

Allergic asthma is an inflammatory respiratory system disease. Capparis spinosa L. has been traditionally used to treat inflammatory diseases. Our goal was to examine the anti-inflammatory activity of C. spinosa extract on a mouse model of allergic asthma. Capparis spinosa fruits were extracted with methanol 80% by maceration method. Forty-two Balb/c mice were divided into six groups of seven. The healthy control group received normal saline and the other five groups were treated with ovalbumin to induce asthma. Subsequently, one group received dexamethasone, three groups were treated with C. spinosa extract (185, 370 and 740 mg/kg/day) for 7 days and the sixth group remained untreated as the positive control. The number of eosinophils and neutrophils and the levels of interleukins -4, -5, and -13 were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of all mice. Histopathological changes in the lung tissues of all animals were also analyzed. The number of eosinophils and neutrophils and the levels of interleukins -4, -5, and -13 in BALFs significantly decreased in C. spinosa extract-treated mice compared with the positive control. Capparis spinosa extract inhibited goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus hypersecretion in lung tissues. Inflammation in the peribronchial and perivascular spaces was non-significantly ameliorated in extract-treated mice. The results of C. spinosa extract-treated mice were comparable with dexamethasone-administered animals. This study is the first report of anti-inflammatory and antiasthmatic properties of C. spinosa extract by modulating eosinophilic trafficking and type 2 inflammatory responses.

Potassium alum, called “Zaj-e-abyaz” in Iranian traditional medicine, is used vaginally in traditional clinics as an astringent agent for uterine fibroids. Before evaluating its efficacy, it is necessary to prepare a suitable dosage form and assess the possible irritation in animal model which was the aim of the current research.

Vaginal suppositories were prepared using 400 mg potassium alum, 200 mg honey and different proportions of poly ethylene glycol (PEG) 600, 1000 and 4000 in each suppository. The best formulation was used for evaluation of possible irritation in rabbit. The suppositories were used in rabbit’s perineum daily for 5 consecutive days in 3 albino rabbits and the appearance of the vaginal opening and perineum for signs of erythema and edema were recorded every day. The final results were calculated as the primary irritation index (PII).

The best formulation contained potassium alum 20%, honey 10%, PEG 600 18%, PEG 1000 12%, PEG 4000 30% and water 10%. According to the animal test, the irritation of the vaginal mucus membrane was considered moderate in rabbits.

Regarding the results, potassium alum could not be used in form of suppository in PEG vehicle and other formulations should be prepared for acquiring the least irritation.

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-dependent neurodegenerative disease. Beta-amyloid (Aβ)-induced neurotoxicity has a pivotal role in AD pathogenesis; therefore, the modulation of Aβ toxicity is the promising therapeutic approach to control the disease progression. Medicinal plants because of their multiple active ingredients are effective in complex diseases, such as AD. Therefore, several studies have studied medicinal plants to find an effective treatment for AD. Ferulago angulata is a medicinal plant with antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. The present study was done to assess the protective effect of the methanolic extract of Ferulago angulate on Aβ-induced toxicity and oxidative stress in PC12 cells.

The methanolic extract of aerial parts of the plant was prepared by the maceration method. PC12 cells were cultured according to a standard protocol. PC12 cells were incubated for 24 hours with Aβ alone, and Aβ in combination with various concentrations of the F. angulata extract. Cell viability was determined by the methyl thiazole tetrazolium (MTT) assay. Also, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the activity of acetylcholine esterase (AChE), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and caspase-3 enzymes were measured. 

The extract dose-dependently protected PC12 cells against Aβ-induced cell death. Also, Aβ increased ROS production, AChE, and caspase-3 activity, and decreased the GPx activity, which all were ameliorated by F. angulata extract. 

F. angulata extract protects against Aβ-induced oxidative stress and apoptosis. These effects may be due to the antioxidant and anticholinesterase activity of the extract. It is recommended to assess F. angulata extract as an anti-AD agent.

  This study evaluated the acute and subacute toxicity of the Coriander Triphala tablet (CTT) in Wistar rats. 

The CTT was prepared according to the method described in our previous work. In the acute toxicity study, five female Wistar rats received 2000 mg/kg CTT and five female rats were administered distilled water as control. In the subacute test, sixty male and female rats were randomly divided into six groups. Three groups received 200, 500, and 1000 mg/kg of the tablet; the satellite group was treated with 1000 mg/kg of CTT, and controls received distilled water for 28 days. Body weights and food and water intake of rats were recorded. Toxicity signs were recorded and hematological, biochemical, and histopathological analyses were performed. 

 No remarkable toxic effect of the tablet was observed in the rats after receiving a single dose of 2000 mg/kg. This indicated that the median lethal dose (LD50) was more than 2000 mg/kg. In the subacute toxicity study, different doses of CTT didn’t change hematological parameters. However, the tablet increased the levels of cholesterol, creatinine, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in males and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and AST in females at high doses. Histopathological evaluation of liver samples from both sexes showed congestion and hydropic degeneration of hepatocytes. Renal histopathology revealed varying degrees of tubular cell necrosis. 

 Our data indicated the toxic effects of CTT on the liver and kidney, suggesting the need for special precautions in administration of this medication to the patients.

Fatigue is a complex phenomenon that is explained as difficulty starting or keeping voluntary physical or mental activity leading to negative impacts on life and work performance. This study aimed to investigate the anti-fatigue effects of Viola odorata L. in an animal model. Aqueous and ethanol extracts of V. odorata were prepared and total phenolics content was determined. Then, the anti-fatigue activity of the extracts was evaluated via a weight-loaded forced swimming test in the rat. To this end, 48 male Wistar rats were randomly classified into 6 groups. The control group using distilled water and other groups with ethanol (EVO; 50, 100, 200 mg/kg) and aqueous extracts of V. odorata (WVO; 50, 100mg/kg) were gavaged once daily for four weeks. Then, the forced swimming was conducted and swimming time, as a fatigue factor was measured. In addition, to validate the effect of V. odorata on the endurance capacity of the rats, biochemical factors including glucose (Glc), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) were examined in the serum. Hepatotoxicity was also assessed using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Our Data indicated that the forced swimming time of the EVO-100, EVO-200, and WVO-100 groups was significantly increased. The serum Glucose in the group which received EVO-200 was increased significantly, while serum LDH levels in all treated groups were significantly decreased. Also, the serum level of TNF-α in the groups which received EVO-100 or 200 was increased significantly. However, there was no considerable difference in serum TNF-α level and no hepatotoxicity within aqueous extract groups. Pathology results showed fewer effects of the aqueous extract rather than ethanol extract on the liver. The results provide evidence for the development and use of V. odorata aqueous extract as an anti-fatigue supplement.

 A significant number of pregnancies are at risk of threatened abortion (TA). Different types of progesterone are used to treat TA.

 In this study, the effects of 2 forms of progesterone on the continuation of pregnancy and TA-caused pregnancy outcomes were compared.

 A total of 190 women with a gestational age of 6 - 13 weeks presenting with uterine bleeding, closed cervix, and absence of fetal heart rate diagnosed by vaginal examination and ultrasound were allocated into 2 groups and treated with either (D) dydrogesterone (10 mg twice a day) or (M) micronized progesterone (200 mg, twice a day) for beyond 2 weeks after the cessation of uterine bleeding to ensure that bleeding would not recur. The participants were followed up and received prenatal care until the end of pregnancy. The outcomes of pregnancy were recorded and compared between the 2 groups.

 The incidence of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean section, intrauterine fetal death (IUFD), placenta previa, and abortion was not significantly different between the 2 groups. However, the prevalence of preterm labor and low birth weight (LBW) was significantly lower in M-treated women (P < 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively). The baby’s weight and gestational age at delivery were significantly higher in the M group than in the D group (P < 0.001). No serious drug side effects were observed in the 2 groups throughout the study.

 The results of this study showed that the incidence of preterm labor and LBW was significantly lower in the patients treated with micronized progesterone than in patients treated with dydrogesterone; however, the prevalence of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, cesarean section, IUFD, and abortion was not significantly different between the 2 groups.

Cardiovascular disorders are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, especially in people with diabetes. Due to synthetic drugs’ adverse effects, new medicines are needed.

Iranian traditional medicine (ITM) is one of the oldest medical systems. In this article, we first introduce a list of cardiotonic medicinal plants based on ITM. Then we review the cardio-related effects of these plants based on electronic databases.

Among the introduced medicinal plants from ITM, Phyllanthus emblica L., Rosa canina L., Ocimum basilicum L., and Melissa officinalis L. have cardiotonic effects. Also, P. emblica, O. basilicum, M. officinalis, Citrus medica L., Malus domestica Borkh., Elettaria cardamomum (L.) Maton, and R. canina have cardioprotective effects and possess several biological activities that reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors.

The cardiotonic medicinal plants based on ITM have excellent value; several pharmacological studies have proved some of their cardioprotective and cardiotonic effects. The other plants’ potential for improving the heart’s contractile power as a cardiotonic drug must be evaluated in further pharmacological and clinical studies.

Hot flash is one of the most common problems in post-menopausal women. The usual treatment is hormone therapy with estrogen and progesterone, which presents side effects such as heart attack, cancer, and depression. In Iranian traditional medicine, some prescriptions have been recommended for treatment of hot flash; in the present study, a syrup was formulated based on traditional medicine and the efficacy in hot flash was evaluated in a pilot study in post-menopausal women.

Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) and Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) were used for preparing the syrup. Physicochemical and microbial quality control tests were performed and the syrup was standardized based on rosmarinic acid and total phenolics content. The effect in post-menopausal women was evaluated in a pilot study with Carpenter Hot Flash Related Daily Interference Scale questionnaire.

The results of the quality control and accelerated stability tests after six months were in agreement with the acceptance criteria. The pH, density, viscosity, dry residue, total phenolics and rosmarinic acid contents were 5.29, 1.12 g/cm3, 42.15 cP, 43.43, 4 mg/mL (as pyrogallol) and 1.28 mg/mL, respectively. In the pilot study, the number and intensity of hot flash decreased (p<0.05); however, there were no significant differences between the number and intensity of night sweating before and after the intervention (p>0.05).

Considering the promising effect of the formulated syrup on hot flash and the acceptable quality and stability of the product, it can be suggested in larger clinical trials for confirming the efficacy.

Capparis spinosa is used in Persian medicine for treatment of various diseases. In order to easier use, better patient’s acceptance and more stability, preparing a suitable dosage form is necessary.

The aim of the study was preparing tablet form from caper fruits and quality assessment of the product.

The fruit extraction was performed using ethanol 80% and maceration technique and the extract was dried by freeze dryer. Eight formulations were made using lactose, avicel PH-102, SiO2 and magnesium stearate. The best formulation was failed during stability tests; therefore, the extract was dried by spray drying method along with maltodextrin and SiO2 as excipients. Eight formulations were prepared using lactose, avicel PH-102, croscarmellose sodium, PVP K30 and magnesium stearate and the best one was selected. Physicochemical and microbial assessments were performed on the selected formulation and stability tests were done in 40°C and 75% humidity as well as 30°C.

Caper tablets with freeze dried extract were deformed and their color changed but tablets with spray dried extract were stable in 30°C. They were oblong, green-blue, biconvex, scored tablets with 20.3×9.9×6.7 mm dimensions. Weight, hardness, disintegration time, rutin assay and dissolution were 1115 mg ± 10%, 18.33 ± 1.52 kp, 15±3.5 min, 0.58 ± 0.02 mg/tab and 93.03 ± 3.61 % in 60 min, respectively.

Caper tablets are good candidate for production in industrial scale after in vivo and clinical studies. Moreover stability assessment of the tablets should be performed in suitable packaging in long term study.

Boswellia serrata is an important medicinal plant with strong antioxidant activity. The present study was designed to evaluate the effects of Boswellia vaginal gel on apoptosis and oxidative damage in vaginal mucosal cells of women with vaginal candidiasis.

Ninety-five women with vaginal candidiasis were enrolled in the clinical trial and received the gel for seven consecutive nights. The clinical symptoms of the disease including vaginal secretion, pain, itching, unpleasant odor, and dyspareunia were recorded. Vaginal discharges were collected before and after treatment for the assessment of malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) using TBAR and FRAP methods, respectively. Expression of Bax, Bcl2, and Caspases-3 genes was surveyed by RT-PCR.

Gel therapy significantly decreased the frequency of pain, burning, itching, dyspareunia and secretion compared to the baseline (p<0.001). Boswellia vaginal gel treatment significantly improved TAC values (from 1.27 ± 0.41 μM/mL to 4.69 ± 0.53 μM/mL; p<0.001) and decreased MDA values (from 31.47 ± 6.69 nM/L to 13.85 ± 3.72 nM/L; p<0.001). The therapy caused a significant decrease in Bax and Casp3 expression, as well as Bax/Bcl2 ratio by 2.34-fold (p=0.018), 2.86-fold (p=0.002), and 12.72-fold (p<0.001), respectively. In contrast, BVG treatment significantly enhanced the expression of Bcl2 expression by 5.42- fold (p<0.001). 

Vaginal candidiasis is remarkably linked to oxidative stress, reduction of the antioxidants and vaginal mucosal cells apoptosis. Boswellia vaginal gel has potential role to improve vaginitis symptoms by elevating antioxidants capacity, mitigating oxidative stress, as well as down-regulating of apoptotic factors.

The most common functional gastrointestinal problem in the world is functional constipation. "Ayarij-e-Faiqra (AF)" is a polyherbal formula that has been recommended by Persian Medicine as an efficent purgative agent . The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of AF on functional constipation using a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. According to the Rome III classification, 79 adults with functional constipation were included in this trial. The diagnostic criteria were according to the Rome III classification. Patients with constipation symptoms who referred to the traditional medicine clinic of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences from April 2014 to September 2016 were randomly allocated to the AF and placebo groups. The AF and placebo groups received AF and placebo for three months, respectively and followed up for another three months. During the study, the treatment efficacy was assessed by a questionnaire. AF treatment significantly decreased most of the symptoms by 84% at the end of the first month (p < 0.05) and by 90% at the end of the third month in comparison to placbo group (p < 0.001). However, three months after the end of the intervention, the frequency of constipation symptoms in both groups was not statistically significant. Based on the satisfaction questionnaire, the treatment satisfaction score during the intervention was increased to 9 in the AF group, but no significant difference was found between the two groups three months after the intervention (p > 0.005). Although AF could be beneficial for treating functional constipation without significant side effects, changing patients’ lifestyles has  great importance in this process.

Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (licorice) is one of the most important medicinal plants for respiratory disorders. It is used alone or in combination with other species. In the present investigation, an herbal syrup containing licorice, fennel, and fig was formulated according to Iranian traditional medicine prescriptions and glycyrrhizic acid content of the syrup was quantified using a validated HPLC method. Traditional syrup was prepared by decocting the mixture of licorice: fennel: fig (20, 8, 62.5 g in 100 mL). It was filtered and concentrated. Sugar was used in the syrup (40%). Quality control tests were performed and glycyrrhizic acid content of the syrup was determined using an HPLC method. The method was verified according to verification parameters, as well. Accelerated stability tests were carried out during 6 months in 40 °C. The prepared syrup was brown colored with fennel odor and sweet taste. The pH, viscosity, dry residue and density were 5.13, 134.8 cP, 51.43%, 1.10 g/cm3, respectively. Glycyrrhizic acid content was 1.99 mg/mL. The HPLC method was valid according to specificity, linearity (9.3-27.9 µg/mL, r2: 0.9972), intra-day precision (RSD≤1.71%), inter-day precision (RSD: 3.31%), instrument precision (RSD: 0.82%), recovery (95.6%), LOD (1.48 µg/mL) and LOQ (4.49 µg/mL). The prepared syrup with suitable physicochemical and microbial characteristics is a proper candidate for producing at industrial scale after further invivo and clinical studies. Moreover, the HPLC method can be used as a validated method for quality control of the syrup.

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) enzymes abundantly found in the central nervous system (CNS) play an essential role in CNS disorders, so monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) have been used for the treatment of neurological ailments such as depression, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, finding the new selective MAOIs is still on the focus of researchers’ attention. This study aimed to evaluate MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitory effects of seven methanolic extracts of Iranian medicinal plants including Sanguisorba minor, Cerasus microcarpa, Ferulago angulata, Stachys pilifera, Amygdalus scoparia, Rosa canina, and Alhagi pseudalhagi.

The dried aerial parts of the plants were extracted with methanol by the maceration method. The inhibitory effects of extracts on MAO-A and MAO-B enzymes of rat brain mitochondria were measured by the fluorimetric method by using kynuramine as a substrate.

Among the extracts, S. minor (IC50 = 7.133 µg/mL) and C. microcarpa (IC50 = 49.53 µg/mL) were the most potent MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitors, respectively. A comparison of the IC50 value indicated that A. scoparia and S. pilifera had a higher affinity for MAO-A inhibition, whereas C. microcarpa and R. canina selectively inhibited the MAO-B enzyme. Moreover, F. angulata was recognized as a non-specific MAO inhibitor. The A. pseudalhagi and S. minor extracts did not show any MAO-B inhibitory effect.

Our study showed that studied extracts have different MAO-A and MAO-B inhibitory effects. Therefore, they can be used for the treatment of various CNS disorders; also, these extracts are an excellent source for finding new compounds with MAO-A or MAO-B inhibitory effects.

Herbal medicines play a significant role in global health-care systems. In this investigation, a polyherbal syrup has been reformulated pursuant to Iranian traditional medicine and its antidepressant effect has been evaluated.

The syrup was prepared by decocting a mixture containing: Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Echium amoenum, Cordia myxa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ziziphus jujuba, Foeniculum vulgare, Fumaria parviflora, Adiantum capillus-veneris, and Alhagi spp. along with glycerin and potassium sorbate. Physicochemical characteristics of the syrup were examined. An accelerated stability test was carried out for syrup as well. Moreover, antidepressant evaluations were performed by the forced swimming test using the drug as gavage (3.3mL/kg/day) for three consecutive weeks. The serum levels of serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline (NA), and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) were determined in rats as well. Finally histopathological examinations were done on liver, kidney and spleen.

The herbal syrup was brown in color with a special taste and flavor. Density, pH, viscosity, dry residue, and total phenolics content were 1.085g/ml, 5.56, 5.35 cP, 15.22%, and 194mg/100mL, respectively. The syrup was stable during accelerated stability tests, and no significant changes were observed. The polyherbal syrup exhibited significant antidepressant effects by decreasing immobility time through increasing in NA and 5-HT levels without affecting BDNF levels. Formulated syrup also did not have any toxic effects on the liver, kidney, and spleen.

The syrup could be an appropriate candidate for pharmaceutical companies after complementary tests such as toxicity and clinical trials.

Coriander Triphala is one of the famous drugs in traditional medicine which is consisted of Terminalia chebula, T. bellirica, Phyllanthus emblica, Coriandrum sativum, almond oil and honey. Traditional dosage forms should be converted to modern forms for better acceptance and suitable characteristics and stability.

In the present investigation, the traditional form of Coriander Triphala was converted to film coated tablet and quality control of the tablet was performed.

The fruits of
T. chebula, T. bellirica, Ph. emblica, C. sativum in equal proportions along with almond oil and honey in different proportions were used for tablet formulation with other excipients. Sixteen formulations were made and after pre-formulation studies, twelve of them were selected for making tablet. Prepared tablets went through primary quality control tests such as weight variation, friability, hardness and disintegration time. Finally, the best formulation was coated by green colored water soluble material and its physicochemical characteristics were determined.

Among different formulations, the tablet consisted of 98 mg of each species, 14 mg almond oil, 148 mg honey along with lactose, Avicel PH-102, croscarmellose sodium, PVP K30, magnesium stearate and silicone dioxide was the best one. Weight variation, hardness, disintegration time, total tannins content as pyrogallol were found 1192 mg ± 5 %, 20 kp, 25 min and 64.19 mg/tablet, respectively. Over 90 % of tannins were released after 60 min during dissolution test.

The formulated tablet with suitable characteristics is a good substitution for traditional form and could be produced in industrial scale after complementary clinical trial studies.

Background and Purpose:

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.), named “Kāsni” in Persian, has been used as a medicinal plant for hepatoprotective, thirst quenching, body heat reducing, bile reducing and activities by traditional Iranian scholars for many centuries. Although chicory is a common plant in traditional medicine, it is attributed to several plant species with different morphologies.

Herein, plant species attributed to chicory in traditional manuscripts were studied and compared with new botanical references. They included Cichorium endivia, Cichorium intybus, Cichorium pumilum, Taraxacum officinale (syn: Taraxacum camphylodes) and Chondrilla juncea. In this survey, morphological features and therapeutic characteristics mentioned both in traditional and conventional medicine resources were reviewed.

The results of morphological assessments showed that Cichorium intybus and Cichorium endivia are Kāsni barri and Kāsni bostāni, respectively. Other species were different in terms of botanical features in comparison with two principal species. 

Due to the importance of accurate identification of medicinal plants for research purposes, we identified Cichorium intybus and Cichorium endiva as Kāsni barri and Kāsni bostāni respectively for the plant chicory among the species listed in Persian medicine references.

Over the centuries, medicinal herbs have been used as major sources of medicine for prevention and treatment of diseases;. however, herbal drugs should be converted to new dosage forms for better acceptance and easier usage by patients. The present research has been performed to formulate a herbal gel for vaginitis based on Iranian traditional medicine.

The extract of oleogumresin of Boswellia was obtained using propylene glycol: water. The gel was prepared using the extract (2% and 5%), carbomer 940 (0.5% and 1%), tri-ethanolamine and distilled water. Further, the prepared gels were evaluated for physicochemical and microbial characteristics. Accelerated stability test was performed on the selected gel for six months.

The gel with 2% extract of Boswellia using propylene glycol: water 80:20 as the solvent and carbomer 1% was selected as the best one. The formulated gel was homogenous, white in color with acceptable physicochemical and microbial characteristics. Hexane soluble content and total acids as boswellic acid in the gel were found 0.25% and 8.7 mg/100 g, respectively. It was stable during centrifugation but it was unstable in temperature cycle test and stability test; therefore, it should be kept in cool place.

The prepared gel contains volatile compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammation activities; therefore, it could be an appropriate candidate for vaginitis.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is widely used in traditional medicine. In Iranian folk medicine, turmeric and egg yolk mixture is used for inflammation due to dislocations and strains. Since lecithin (one of the component of egg yolk) is an absorption enhancer, it seems this phospholipid can increase turmeric absorption and its anti-inflammatory effect.

In order to find the role of lecithin in the folklore formulation, anti-inflammatory effects of ointments containing turmeric extract and lecithin have been studied.

Ointment base was prepared using bees wax, vaseline, liquid paraffin and eucerin. Then, hydroalcoholic turmeric extract (2.5 % and 5 %) with lecithin (5 % and 15 %) or without lecithin were added to the ointment base. Anti-inflammatory effect of the ointments was assessed in arthritis model in rat using complete Freund’s adjuvant. Ointments were used daily on the inflamed joints for 20 days. Finally, arthritis index, TNF-α concentration and histopathological changes of joints were determined.

The results showed that arthritis index has decreased in all groups but it was significant in groups of turmeric 2.5 % and turmeric 5 % with lecithin 15 %. TNF-α was decreased in all samples but reduction was more significant in group turmeric 2.5 %. Histopathological changes were significantly less in turmeric groups compared to ointment base group.

It seems that local healers use egg yolk as a binder in formulation. In other words, turmeric 2.5 % ointment is preferable compared to other formulations.

Hemorrhoids is the most prevalent rectal disease. Despite different medical efforts, its complications are not managed well. In the present research, a popular prescription for treatment of hemorrhoids was formulated as tablet dosage form and, its HPTLC fingerprint prepared.

Commiphora mukul was dissolved in Allium ampeloprasum juice (1:3). Then, this solution was blended with Terminalia chebula, Phyllantus emblica and Terminalia bellirica (1:1:1) powder. Different formulations were prepared from the mixture and the best one was selected for tablet preparation. Subsequently, the tablets were coated and their physicochemical characteristics and fingerprint pattern were obtained using silica gel plate, NP/PEG reagent and toluene: ethyl acetate: formic acid (70:15:15) as mobile phase. Laboratory stability studies were carried out as well.

Formulation C revealed excellent results in flowability studies (angle of repose: 26, carr’s index: 6, hausner ratio: 1.00). It was also demonstrated acceptable results in different tests including weight variation (500 mg), hardness (8.04 kg/cm2), disintegration time (28.50 min), friability (0.6%), dissolution (97.6% phenolics and 96.1% tannins, respectively) and the coating process. Total phenolics and tannins contents were determined as 125.8 mg/tab and 89.2 mg/tab, respectively. In fingerprinting study, characteristic spots of each species were distinguished. The film-coated tablets were stable in laboratory stability test.

With reference to anti-inflammatory, astringent and wound healing roles of phenolics and tannins in hemorrhoids, the present tablets could be an appropriate candidate for hemorrhoids regarding its historical backgrounds.

Capparis spinosa is used in different countries for prevention and treatment of various diseases. Its fruits are usually used in processed form especially with vinegar.

The aim of the present study was investigating the effect of processing on some phytochemical constituents and biological activities of C. spinosa.

The fruits were processed with grape vinegar. Total phenolics and alkaloids contents of the raw and processed fruits were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu and titration methods, respectively. For quantitation of rutin, quercetin and α-tocopherol, R-HPLC was used. Cytotoxic activity of the fruits was determined by MTT assay. Antioxidant properties were evaluated by DPPH and FRAP techniques. Fingerprinting of raw and processed fruits were prepared using TLC and evaluated by TLC densitometry instrument. 

The results demonstrated that while total phenolics, total alkaloids and quercetin contents were decreased in the processed fruits, rutin concentration remained unchanged. Antioxidant activities of processed fruits increased using both DPPH and FRAP methods. Raw and processed fruits showed no cytotoxic effect on MCF-7, HepG-2 and MDBK cell lines up to the concentration of 100 µg/ml. The fingerprints of the fruits were different which admitted the change in the fruit constituents due to processing.

It seems that processing with vinegar lessens the unpleasant taste of the plant due to alkaloids and increased the antioxidant effects; therefore, it would be more suitable for use in some diseases such as diabetes and hepatitis as it is used in folklore and traditional medicine.

Herbal medicines play a significant role in global healthcare systems. In this investigation, “Monzej soda” syrup was prepared by decocting a mixture containing Lavandula angustifolia, Melissa officinalis, Echium amoenum, Cordia myxa, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Ziziphus jujuba, Foeniculum vulgare, Fumaria parviflora, Adiantum capillus-veneris and Alhagi spp. Manna. along with glycerin, sodium benzoate and potacium sorbate. Physicochemical characteristics of the syrup were examined. Moreover, an HPLC technique was designed for analysis of rosmarinic acid in the syrup using C18 column, isocratic H3PO4 0.085% as the mobile phase, flow rate of 1 ml/min in λmax 330 nm. The method was validated for selectivity, linearity, precision, accuracy, LOD and LOQ. The herbal syrup was brown color with special taste and flavor. Density, pH, viscosity, dry residue, total phenolics, rosmarinic acid content were found 1.085 g/ml, 5.56, 5.35 cP, 15.22±0.43 %, 194 mg/100ml and 47.5 mg/100 ml, respectively. The syrup was stable during laboratory stability tests. The HPLC method was valid according to selectivity, linearity (72-110 µg/ml, r2: 0.9995), intra-day and inter-day precisions (RSD%˂2), accuracy (103.38-106.47%), LOD 1.6 µg/ml and LOQ 4.9 µg/ml. The syrup is a good candidate for pharmaceutical companies after pharmacological and clinical tests.

Oligo-amenorrhea is one of the most common symptoms in poly cystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients and Nigella sativa is a medicinal plant used in Iranian traditional medicine for the treatment of oligo-amenorrhea. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of N. sativa oil on oligo-amenorrhea in patients with PCOS.

This study was a double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial conducted on 84 PCOS patients with oligo-amenorrhea. Patients were randomly assigned to intervention and placebo group. They used two soft gel capsules of N. sativa oil (500 mg, each capsule) or placebo at night for sixteen weeks. Four indices were used to assess menstruation; the interval between menstruations, duration of menstruation, the occurrence of menstruation and the severity of bleeding. The two groups were compared using analysis of covariance.

Fifty five patients completed the study (32 patients in N. sativa group and 23 patients in placebo group). The menstrual interval after the study in the intervention group (45 days, 95% CI) was significantly lower than the control group (86 days). The frequency of menstrual cycle in the intervention group (0.79) was significantly higher than the placebo group (0.48). No serious complication was reported in this clinical trial.

findings suggest that N. sativa is an alternative treatment and could be useful for menstrual irregularities in women with PCOS. Further studies are recommended to find the exact mechanisms of N. sativa and its different derivatives.