The increasing burden of age-related illnesses underscores the urgent necessity for integrative treatment approaches that simultaneously address the complex connections between metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders. Diabetes mellitus (DM) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are strongly interconnected through shared pathological mechanisms. Plant-based therapeutics with their rich diversity of multitarget bioactive compounds are able to compromise such a complex network. Centella asiatica (l.) Urb. (C. asiatica), A medicinal herb, it has garnered significant attention for its metabolic and neuroprotective activities in ethnopharmacology, as well as preclinical and clinical studies. In this study, we employ a computational approach to elucidate the key bioactive constituents of C. asiatica and their ability to modulate shared pathological mechanisms linking DM and AD. Provide a scientific rationale for its use as a multitarget phyto-therapeutic candidate against ageing-associated comorbidities. Relevant keywords were used to search databases Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar and WOS. To gather the scientific evidence of its phytoconstituents, anti-diabetic activity and anti-Alzheimer's activity. Further, a network pharmacology-based approach was adopted. From the identified phytoconstituents, fifty-four have favourable oral bioavailability, targeting 486 proteins. Venn interaction revealed 404 genes are cross-linked among C. asiatica, DM, and AD. Network pharmacology and enrichment analysis suggested that the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway is the key regulatory axis. C. asiatica demonstrates potential as a multi-target phyto-therapeutic agent for managing interconnected ageing disorders, i.e., DM and AD, through modulation of the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway.
Medicinal plants are widely used worldwide for ear, nose, and throat (ENT) disorders and have a long history of traditional application. This review aims to summarize current experimental and clinical evidence on medicinal plants used for ENT conditions such as otitis externa/media, tinnitus, vertigo, allergic rhinitis, pharyngitis, and laryngitis, and to support the identification of new plant species with antimicrobial potential against ENT pathogens. This review thoroughly summarizes recent developments from 2020 to 2025 and was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, with predefined ENT and medicinal plants-related keywords. Frequently used species include Lavandula angustifolia, Thymus vulgaris, Curcuma longa, Zingiber officinale, Origanum vulgare, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Mentha piperita, Matricaria chamomilla, and Syzygium aromaticum, many of which show In vitro antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral activity relevant to upper airway and oral/ENT infections. Evidence indicates that selected medicinal plants and their extracts or essential oils inhibit key ENT-related pathogens, including multidrug-resistant respiratory and pharyngeal bacteria. The compiled data, structured in comparative tables, highlight promising taxa and preparation types, and underscore gaps in clinical validation, standardization, and safety assessment. Overall, this review provides an evidence-based overview of ENT-related phytotherapy and a framework for future pharmacological and phytochemical studies aimed at developing novel plant-derived antimicrobials for ear, nose, and throat diseases.
Alpine woody plants are deeply embedded in traditional healthcare systems across the Southern European Alps, where multiple organs-including leaves, bark, fruits, buds, and flowers-are used to manage respiratory, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, dermatological, metabolic, cardiovascular, and urogenital disorders. This systematic review synthesizes ethnopharmacological uses, evaluates phytochemical and pharmacological evidence, and contextualizes the ecosystem functions of woody plant species native to the European Alps. Following PRISMA guidelines, Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed were systematically searched for peer-reviewed studies published up to May 2025. Data from 281 eligible sources were harmonized, covering 54 woody species (28 trees, 26 shrubs; 25 families). Extracted variables included ecological distribution, harvested organs, phytochemical classes, and experimentally validated bioactivities. Therapeutic indications were mapped using the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC-2). Phytochemical profiles were predominantly characterized by phenolic acids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and saponins. These compounds underpin convergent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, vasoprotective, and cytotoxic activities demonstrated in vitro and in vivo. Beyond medicinal relevance, the same species contribute to soil stabilization, hydrological regulation, carbon sequestration, and the preservation of biocultural landscapes. However, climate-driven range shifts, land-use intensification, commercial overharvesting, and limited pharmacokinetic and toxicological data constrain both sustainability and clinical translation. High-priority taxa and critical knowledge gaps were identified. An integrated research framework is proposed, combining standardized green extraction technologies, high-resolution metabolomics, longitudinal ecological monitoring, participatory documentation of traditional knowledge, and equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms. Such integration is necessary to advance evidence-based phytotherapy while ensuring sustainable stewardship of Alpine woody ecosystems.
Thymus species play an important role in traditional medicine, food practices, and cultural heritage across the Balkan Peninsula, a region characterized by high floristic diversity and long-standing ethnobotanical traditions. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of published ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological data on the traditional uses of Thymus species in the Balkans. A systematic survey of literature published between 1900 and 2022 was conducted using major scientific databases and classical ethnobotanical sources, covering Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, and the European part of Turkey. In total, 553 records of traditional use were documented. The results reveal that Thymus taxa are most frequently employed for the treatment of respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders, followed by applications related to the nervous, urinary, cardiovascular, and integumentary systems. Culinary uses such as spices, herbal teas, beverages, and food preservatives are widely reported, highlighting the close connection between medicinal and dietary traditions. The analysis also identifies significant taxonomic inconsistencies in the ethnobotanical literature, particularly the frequent misapplication of names such as T. serpyllum and T. vulgaris, which complicates the interpretation of traditional knowledge. Overall, the strong cross-cultural consistency of uses across Balkan countries supports the pharmacological relevance of Thymus species and aligns well with modern phytotherapeutic evaluations. This review underscores the importance of critically integrating ethnobotanical data, taxonomic accuracy, and contemporary phytotherapy to better understand and utilize the therapeutic potential of Thymus species.
The evaluation and management of lower urinary symptoms (LUTS) experienced in the immediate post-operative period after benign prostatic obstruction surgery (BPO), remain unclear. Aim of our study is to systematically report the evidence on management of post-operative transient urinary symptoms after BPO surgery. A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses checklist (PRISMA). PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Cochrane databases were searched up to March 2025. Studies evaluating pharmacotherapy, phytotherapy and/or physical treatment for post-operative transient LUTS in men aged were evaluated. Only randomized clinical trials (RCTs) were included. Overall, nine RCTs were included. Among the surgical techniques investigated, most data were available for transurethral resection of the prostate. The methods used to assess post-operative LUTS, as well as the timing of evaluation, varied considerably across studies. The most commonly submitted questionnaire was the International Prostate Symptom Score, and the most frequently performed diagnostic tool was uroflowmetry. Anticholinergic drugs seems to have the greatest efficacy in improving post-operative LUTS, even if the level of evidence is low. In contrast, alpha-blockers did not appear to offer significant additional benefits in this setting of patients. Phytocomplexes (Graminex G63, Curcumin complexes) were effective in improving patients' quality of life (QoL) after BPO surgery. Pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFME) also demonstrated a reduction in symptom-related bother. Current strategies for evaluating and managing transient postoperative LUTS are heterogeneous, and available evidence remains limited. Anticholinergic agents and phytotherapeutic compounds are among the most commonly prescribed treatments, though their efficacy is suboptimal. High-quality randomized trials are needed to provide robust clinical recommendations.
In Africa, ethnoveterinary medicine (including the use of botanicals) often serves as the dominant source of affordable and accessible means for managing animal health and well-being, particularly among resource-poor households in local communities. An understanding of the historical versus prevailing trends and patterns remain essential to drive the maturation of African ethnoveterinary research and to bridge the gap between Indigenous knowledge and scientific inquiry. This study entails a comprehensive scientometric review to map the research landscape of ethnoveterinary practices in Africa, focusing on the use of medicinal plants for animal health management. The analysis aims to identify historical trends, thematic evolution, influential contributors, and geographic patterns in the field from 2001 to 2024. A bibliometric approach was applied, leveraging data from Scopus, Web of Science, and Dimensions (n = 190 articles). Literature retrieval was based on structured search strings targeting plant-based remedies in African ethnoveterinary context. Data consolidation, cleaning, and analysis were performed via R/Bibliometrix, encompassing citation dynamics, authorship productivity, institutional contributions, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic evolution. The research field demonstrated steady growth (5.92% annual rate), with Nigeria (87 citations/article), Kenya (67.3), and South Africa (48.8) emerging as leading contributors. Dominant themes included phytotherapy, medicinal plants, and livestock parasitology (e.g., Haemonchus contortus). Seminal works underscored the integration of traditional knowledge with pharmacological assessment. Despite the growth, international collaboration remains sparse (5.79% of works). Thematic shifts revealed a transition from broad ethnobotanical documentation (2001-2009) to targeted studies on plant efficacy and parasitic challenges (2018-2024). Citation peaks occurred in the early 2000s, followed by a post-2014 decline, predictably attributed to field saturation and absorption into broader veterinary domains. The need for enhanced global partnerships to amplify research impact, rigorous validation of traditional remedies, and equitable capacity-building in underrepresented regions cannot be overemphasised. Sources such as the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Veterinary Parasitology were pivotal in disseminating research, while institutions such as the University of Pretoria drove productivity in Africa. This review underscores the maturation of African ethnoveterinary research, bridging Indigenous knowledge with scientific inquiry. Future efforts should prioritise interdisciplinary collaboration, conservation of medicinal plant resources, and policy frameworks to optimise animal healthcare in resource-limited settings. This review provides a foundational roadmap for researchers, policymakers, and funding bodies to advance the sustainability of African ethnoveterinary and the potential global relevance.
Cynara cardunculus subsp. scolymus (L.) Benth. (Asteraceae) is a medicinal and food plant traditionally used in phytotherapy for its hepatoprotective, digestive, and antioxidant properties. While the edible bracts are widely consumed, artichoke leaf-recognized in herbal medicine as a valuable source of bioactive compounds-is largely discarded during industrial processing. "Carciofo Bianco di Pertosa", a traditional artichoke cultivar from Campania region (Italy), also known as "white" artichoke, remains poorly investigated from a phytochemical and pharmacological point of view. The present study aimed at characterizing the phytochemical profile of its leaf and to explore their potential relevance for nutraceutical and cosmetic applications. A 75% ethanolic extract obtained by Solid-Liquid Dynamic Extraction (Naviglio method) was analyzed by Liquid Chromatography coupled with High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry (LC-ESI/LTQOrbitrap/MS/MS) in negative ion mode. Structural elucidation of the main constituents was performed by 1D- and 2D-NMR spectroscopy and Flow Injection Analysis-Mass Spectrometry (FIA-MS). The analysis revealed the presence of caffeoyl-, dicaffeoyl quinic acid derivatives and flavonoids, along with sesquiterpene lactones. A chlorinated guaiane-type sesquiterpene lactone, pertosin A (17), is here described for the first time. Based on the ability to prevent skin photoaging processes reported for cynaropicrin, the tyrosinase inhibitory activity of the 75% ethanolic extract and isolated sesquiterpenes was evaluated by a spectrophotometric assay. The extract inhibited tyrosinase activity with an IC₅₀ value of 55 μg/mL, while the isolated compounds showed IC₅₀ values between 139 and 312 μM. Pertosin A (17) displayed inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ = 139 μM) comparable to that of kojic acid (IC₅₀ = 134 μM).
Introduction and objective Phytotherapy offers a promising approach for treating male infertility by harnessing the bioactive properties of various medicinal plants. Studies have shown that plant extracts rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds can improve sperm quality, particularly by reducing oxidative stress, a key factor in decreased motility and DNA integrity of spermatozoa. Our study aimed to investigate how in vitro supplementation with Mentha suaveolens (apple mint), Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary), and Lippia citriodora (lemon verbena)affects human sperm motility and vitality. We also evaluated their influence on sperm DNA integrity by measuring the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and the sperm chromatin decondensation index (SDI). In addition, this study investigated the concentration-dependent effects of these essential oils using an in vitro experimental approach and included the separate analysis of normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic samples in order to better assess their potential impact on sperm quality. Materials and methods We tested different concentrations of the three essential oils (Mentha suaveolens, Rosmarinus officinalis, Lippia citriodora) from 10 µg/µl to 80 µg/µl on normozoospermic (n=120) and asthenozoospermic (n=120) sperm samples in vitro to assess their impact on sperm parameters, including motility, vitality, DNA fragmentation index, and sperm chromatin decondensation index. Results Our results revealed a strong association between essential oils and sperm parameters. A significant improvement in motility was observed for normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic samples at a concentration of 10 µg/µl in the two essential oils Mentha suaveolens and Rosmarinus officinalis, and at a concentration of 40 µg/µl for the essential oil Lippia citriodora. However, a significant difference was noted in sperm vitality. Furthermore, both the DNA fragmentation index and the sperm chromatin decondensation index showed statistically significant differences in both samples (p < 0.001). Conclusion These data suggest that essential oil supplementation could be a promising approach to improving sperm quality and potentially enhancing male fertility.
Helminth infections represent a serious health concern in sheep farming, with increasing reports of anthelmintic resistance rendering conventional pharmacological therapies less effective or ineffective, with significant implications for animal health and welfare. Consequently, the search for alternatives to commonly used synthetic products for helminth control has become imperative. This research investigates the therapeutic effects of a pomegranate-based aqueous macerate against gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs), while simultaneously evaluating potential impacts on clinical welfare indicators (Body Condition Score, FAMACHA Score, Fecal Score, Dag Score). To this end, a flock of forty Sardinian breed ewes, homogeneous for parasitic intensity (∼ 343 EPG), was enrolled and divided into two groups: treated (TG = 20 animals) and control (CG = 20 animals). The treated group received two oral administrations of macerate (50 mL/head) on Days 0 and 7. Fecal samples were collected from the animals on Days 7, 14, and 21 after the treatment, and parasitic intensity was assessed to determine the efficacy of the preparation. Treatment resulted in a reduction in parasitic intensity (FECR) of 50.2% on Day 7, peaking at 55.4% on Day 14, and 51.7% on Day 21. Fecal cultures revealed a significant reduction in Haemonchus contortus (from 15% to 10%) in the treated group at Day 21, a reduction of Trichostrongylus spp., and stability of Teladorsagia. Cumulative Link Mixed Models revealed significant improvements in all welfare indicators in treated compared to control animals: Body Condition Score showed significantly higher odds of better scores at Day 21 (OR = 16.44, p < 0.01), while FAMACHA, Fecal, and Dag scores all showed significantly lower odds of anemia, abnormal feces, and perianal contamination, respectively (p < 0.001 for all). A correlation was observed between the therapeutic efficacy of pomegranate-based treatment and the improvement of the animal welfare indicators (Animal-based measures - ABMs) examined. This activity is attributed to phytocomponents such as gallic acid, the most abundant compound, and ellagic acid, a well-recognized bioactive marker, both highly represented in the peel and seeds of the fruit. Therefore, these findings suggest that pomegranate (Punica granatum) could be a promising anthelmintic agent for use in veterinary drug rotation in sheep farms. Waste from fruit juice processing may represent a valuable resource to produce phytotherapeutic products to complement traditional anthelmintic protocols, fully consistent with the principles of the circular economy.
Tetrahymena pyriformis is biologically similar to Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, the parasite that causes "white spot disease" in fish. Because it has immune evasion genes and grows quickly, T. pyriformis serves as an ideal model for developing treatments against I. multifiliis and related parasites. This study tested water extracts from 10 traditional Chinese herbs against T. pyriformis and identified 5 with strong antiparasitic effects: Morus alba, Psoralea corylifolia, Sophora flavescens, Polygonum cuspidatum, and Pomegranate Peel. Combination tests showed that certain pairs, especially P. corylifolia with M. alba, worked together synergistically. When infected guppies were treated with this herbal combination at a concentration of 1.39 g/L (1:144 dilution), their 10-day survival rate reached 66.7%. Gill tissue analysis identified 577 genes with changed activity after treatment-228 increased and 349 decreased. These genes were linked to immune responses, metabolism, and cell processes. The key differentially expressed genes include those involved in the IL-17 signaling pathway, amino sugar metabolism, and the cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway. These results show that the herbal combination works by both directly killing parasites and boosting the fish's immune system. This study provides a scientific basis for using natural herbal treatments as an eco-friendly way to control parasitic diseases in aquaculture.
Herbs have historically been used in dentistry. For instance, peppermint oil and clove oil have been used to alleviate a toothache by soaking a cotton ball in the oil and subsequently placing it in the cavity or applying it directly to the affected tooth. Dental caries and periodontal diseases are the most predominant diseases in dentistry. Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis, respond to antibacterial mouthwashes. This commentary describes several significant herbs, including bloodroot, caraway, chamomile, myrrh, rosemary, sage, aloe vera, neem leaf, Echinacea purpurea, and Peganum harmala, that have been used in dentistry. Their topical use may gain popularity due to the lack of reported microbial resistance and their minimal side effects.   Key Words: Herbs, Herbal medicine, Dentistry, Dental world.
Benzydamine is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug widely used in topical formulations but occasionally misused orally at high doses for psychoactive effects. Data regarding the safety of benzydamine at supratherapeutic doses are limited and mainly focus on central nervous system effects. Even less information is available concerning its safety during pregnancy, despite the increased risk of unplanned pregnancies among users of psychoactive substances. In this preliminary study, we aimed to evaluate the maternal and fetotoxic potential of benzydamine to support future targeted reproductive toxicity investigations. Pregnant Wistar rats received benzydamine throughout gestation, followed by cesarean section and evaluation of fetal viability, fetal body weight at term, and macroscopic abnormalities. Maternal biochemical parameters related to hepatic, renal, and metabolic function, and oxidative stress markers, were also assessed. Results were compared with those of a control group. No significant differences in routine biochemical parameters were observed between groups; however, benzydamine exposure was associated with reduced fetal body weight and increased maternal plasma malondialdehyde levels. These findings suggest that benzydamine may impair fetal growth through indirect maternal toxicity and oxidative stress rather than direct teratogenic effects.
Plant-derived extracellular vesicles (PDEVs), engineered phytosomes, bioinspired polymeric plant-based nanoparticles (PBNPs), hybrid phyto-inorganic nanocomposites, green-synthesized metal nanoparticles, self-assembled nanoarchitectures, and multifunctional composites represent a rapidly advancing class of sustainable, nature-inspired nanocarriers. These platforms combine exceptional biocompatibility, negligible immunogenicity, and renewable sourcing with tunable drug loading, targeted delivery, and controlled release properties. This review synthesizes translational advances from 2020 to 2026, covering scalable isolation/bioprocessing (bioreactors, elicitation), multi-parametric physicochemical/multi-omics characterization, rational engineering/hybridization, and rigorous in vitro/in vivo assessments of uptake, biodistribution, pharmacokinetic (PK), and efficacy. Phytosomes and PBNPs markedly enhance oral bioavailability and targeted delivery of lipophilic phytochemicals, while PDEVs offer unique immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and gene-regulatory activities. Hybrid and green-synthesized systems provide structural stability, redox modulation, and synergistic effects, and self-assembled/multifunctional composites address solubilization barriers with stimuli-responsive design. Early-phase human studies on grapefruit-, ginger-, turmeric-, and ginseng-derived PDEVs report excellent short-term safety, favorable PK, and preliminary bioactivity signals, with no observed immunogenicity or dose-limiting toxicities; however, these trials remain exploratory, constrained by small sample sizes and safety-focused endpoints. Despite challenges, including methodological heterogeneity, variable yields, long-term safety uncertainties (notably for inorganic hybrids), and regulatory ambiguities, emerging strategies such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-engineered plant line; artificial-intelligence-driven process optimization; standardized guidelines, and integrated clinical, intellectual property, and commercialization frameworks are progressively addressing these barriers. Collectively, these advances position plant-derived nanocarriers as immunologically privileged, eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic and mammalian platforms, laying the foundation for a sustainable era of precision phytomedicine.
Hybrid supramolecular-nanocomposite hydrogels based on polyethylene glycol (PEG), β-cyclodextrin-adamantane host-guest interactions, and silica nanoparticles represent an important class of hierarchical soft materials with tunable viscoelastic and transport properties. This review critically analyzes recent progress in cyclodextrin-silica hybrid PEG hydrogels, focusing on the mechanistic coupling between stiffness, stress relaxation, and molecular transport arising from the interplay between reversible supramolecular crosslinks and nanoparticle-induced confinement effects. Particular attention is given to how host-guest exchange kinetics regulate dynamic bond rearrangement and affinity-mediated retention of hydrophobic cargo, while silica nanoparticles enhance mechanical reinforcement and modify diffusion pathways through tortuosity and interfacial polymer-particle interactions. The analysis highlights how nanoparticle size, loading level, and surface functionalization influence relaxation spectra and network topology, as well as how environmental stimuli may affect supramolecular bond stability and overall material performance. Comparison with alternative inorganic fillers and mesoporous silica architectures further clarifies the specific advantages of silica in achieving balanced mechanical stability and controlled transport behavior. Overall, current evidence indicates that hybrid CD-silica networks enable partial decoupling of stiffness, relaxation dynamics, and diffusion, although complete independence remains constrained by fundamental polymer physics relationships. These insights support the development of predictive structure-property frameworks for advanced biomedical and controlled release applications.
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Symphytum officinale: L. (S. officinale), commonly known as comfrey, has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years to treat wounds, fractures, and inflammatory conditions. This review is the first comprehensive ethnopharmacological synthesis that systematically integrates cross-cultural traditional knowledge with the latest evidence on its phytochemical profile, pharmacological mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and toxicological risks. Unlike previous fragmented reviews that addressed only isolated aspects, we followed PRISMA guidelines to analyze selected studies, with a strong emphasis on developing safe, pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA)-depleted topical formulations that translate the plant's classic "knitbone" reputation into modern evidence-based phytotherapy. Key bioactive constituents-allantoin, rosmarinic acid, polysaccharides, and lignans-exert anti-inflammatory, tissue-regenerative, and bone-repair effects primarily by inhibiting NF-κB and MAPK pathways and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Randomized controlled trials demonstrate that topical S. officinale preparations significantly outperform placebo in acute back pain, knee osteoarthritis, ankle sprains, and myalgia, while showing non-inferiority to diclofenac and an excellent safety profile. However, the presence of hepatotoxic PAs (intermedine and lycopsamine) strictly limits internal use. Topical application remains safe owing to minimal systemic absorption. By bridging historical wisdom with rigorous contemporary data and spotlighting PA-depletion strategies, this review offers a balanced framework for safe clinical application and future formulation optimization.
Cognitive functions are essential to daily life as they encompass the fundamental abilities required for any activity. Despite the importance of cognitive health in adolescents, the effects of aroma shiatsu massage therapy on cognitive function in this age group have not been previously investigated. Thus, the objective of the study was to assess the effect of aroma shiatsu massage therapy on cognitive function in adolescents aged 17-19 years. A total of 100 healthy adolescents were allocated into study group (SG) (n = 50) and control group (CG) (n = 50). The SG underwent a single 10 min session of aroma shiatsu massage therapy on selected acupuncture points, while CG underwent rest in sitting position for 10 min. Audio reaction time (ART), Visual reaction time (VRT) and Critical flicker fusion frequency (CFFF) were assessed before and immediately after the intervention. Within-group differences were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test, and between-group differences were assessed using ANCOVA. Results of the study showed a significant reduction in ART and VRT (p < 0.05 for both) with no significant changes in CFFF (p = 0.785) in SG, whereas CG showed a significant reduction in VRT (p < 0.05) with no significant changes in ART (p = 0.991) or CFFF (p = 0.648). Moreover, the between group analysis showed no significant change in CFFF, ART and VRT. A single 10 min session of aroma shiatsu massage therapy showed significant cognitive improvements within the treated group, but these were not significantly different from the control group. However, larger, longer-term studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Aim of this review is to evaluate the pharmacological efficacy and safety of Serenoa repens extracts in managing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Using PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane database, we identified studies published until November 2023 reporting effect of Serenoa repens extracts on LUTS and BPH. All studies were included in the literature search. The most relevant studies were selected to identify the effects of different extracts of serenoa repens in terms of pharmacology, efficacy and safety. Hexanic extract of Serenoa repens (HESr), presents important anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antiandrogenic activities proven through various in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials. The current phytotherapeutic landscape is very heterogeneous and limited by the lack of a regulatory framework for herbal substances. There is a clear disparity in the qualitative and quantitative composition of extracts due to varied extractive processes, affecting the therapeutic efficacy. Several studies (prospective randomized clinical trials) demonstrated the clinical efficacy of HESr compared to placebo and other pharmacological treatments. Particularly, HESr improves nocturia and Qmax. Other extraction techniques, such as alcoholic and CO<inf>2</inf> need further RCT to better define their efficacy. The review identifies the critical role of Serenoa repens extract in managing LUTS in patients with BPH. Particularly the evidence suggests significant in vitro and in vivo differences in terms of inflammation reduction, symptoms relief and flow improvement depending on the extraction technique.
Background: Numerous plant-derived products have shown notable potential in preclinical studies and traditional use for the management of periodontitis, although clinical studies validating their efficacy remain scarce. The present study investigated the efficacy of a polyherbal phytopreparation as an adjunctive therapy to scaling and root planing (SRP) in patients with periodontitis, and further examined its underlying mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetic behavior, and toxicological profile using in silico approaches. Methods: Eighty patients with moderate periodontitis (stage II, grade A) were randomly assigned to two groups: a control group (n = 40) treated with SRP alone, and an experimental group (n = 40) receiving SRP followed by topical phytotherapeutic treatment with the polyherbal Tinctura paradentoica®. Efficacy was evaluated using the gingival index, periodontal pocket depth, and cytomorphometric analysis of gingival cells before treatment and one month after. The in silico analysis, guided by HPLC profiling, included MolDock-based docking to assess interactions of bioactive compounds with cyclooxygenase isoforms COX-1 and COX-2 as anti-inflammatory targets, and evaluation of their pharmacokinetic and toxicity properties (ADME/Tox) using SwissADME, ProTox-3.0, and pkCSM. Results: Compared with SRP treatment, the experimental treatment significantly reduced the gingival index and periodontal pocket depth (p < 0.05), as well as the assessed cytomorphometric parameters (nuclear area, perimeter, and Feret's diameter values) (p < 0.001). Rerank analysis revealed van der Waals-driven isoform selectivity: compact phenolic acids and aglycones favored COX-1, whereas bulky glycosides (e.g., rutin, narcissoside) were optimized for COX-2, with luteolin-7-O-glucoside showing near-balanced engagement. The ADME/Tox analysis indicated generally favorable pharmacokinetic and safety characteristics of phenolic compounds from the phytopreparation, including low systemic absorption and no predicted mutagenicity or skin sensitization potential. Conclusions: The topical application of the polyherbal phytopreparation demonstrated significant potential to enhance the efficacy of conventional SRP therapy by promoting the regression of gingival inflammation in patients with moderate periodontitis, further supported by in silico findings.
Pediatric neurotoxicity remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. In Morocco, the burden of toxic exposures leading to neurological disorders is still underexplored. This study aimed to describe the epidemiology, clinical profile, toxicological features, and outcomes of pediatric neurotoxic poisonings in a tertiary care hospital in Fez, Morocco. A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to January 2023 at the Pediatric Emergency Units of Hassan II University Hospital. Pediatric patients under 18 years presenting with neurological symptoms secondary to confirmed or suspected toxic exposures were included. Demographic, clinical, and toxicological data were collected using standardized forms, complemented by biological sampling and advanced toxicological analyses. Among 4183 pediatric emergency admissions, 743 (17.8%) presented with neurological disorders, of which 384 (51.7%) were attributed to toxic exposures. Of these 384 cases, major agents included pharmaceuticals, traditional herbal remedies, pesticides, venoms, and illicit substances. Multiple exposures were observed in 55% of cases, and 70% resulted from repeated exposure. Intensive care was required in 29.1% of patients, and overall mortality reached 11.9%, with phytotherapy, illicit drugs, and pesticides being the leading causes of death. Delayed consultation and limited antidote availability were major challenges. Pediatric neurotoxicity is highly prevalent in Morocco, shaped by a unique combination of cultural and environmental risk factors. These findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened toxicovigilance, regulation of hazardous substances, public education, and improved diagnostic and therapeutic resources.