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ISSN: 0975-766X
Available Online through Research Article
www.ijptonline.com
ANTIDIABETIC AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFICACY OF ANDROGRAPHIS PANICULATA IN
ALLOXANIZED ALBINO RATS
Ravikumar. R*, Krishnamoorthy. P, Kalidoss. A
Post Graduate and Research Department of Biotechnology.
JJ College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai, Tamil Nadu, India- 622 422.
Email: ravimicrobiotech@gmail.com
Received on 12-10-2010 Accepted on 29-10-2010
Abstract: Antidiabetic potential and antioxidant activity of ethanol extract of Andrographis paniculata leaves were
assessed in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Results revealed that, diabetic rats showed increase in blood glucose and
decrease in plasma insulin (p<0.01) levels after 48 hrs of alloxan administration. The oral administration of ethanol
extract at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg of body weight, for 30 days exhibited a significant reduction in the blood
glucose level compared to the standard drug-treated rats and diabetic control. The level of serum triglycerides,
phospholipids and total cholesterol were significantly increased in diabetic rats. The concentration of urine,
glucose, glycosylated Haemoglobin was significantly increased, whereas haemoglobin, total protein, albumin and
liver glycogen were significantly decreased in diabetic animals. Administration of A. paniculata leaf extract
decreased the diabetic complication. The marker enzymes of liver toxicity such as serum alanine transaminase
(ALT), serum aspartate transaminase (AST), serum acid phosphatase (ACP) and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
were elevated significantly in diabetic control. The liver glycogen levels also increased significantly in alloxaninduced
diabetic rats. Catalase and vitamin C levels were increased Andrographis paniculata fed rats.
Phytotherapy with the A. paniculata ethanol extract showed significant restoration in enzymatic and non enzymatic
activities in diabetic animals. The phyto-treatment showed more efficient antihyperglycemic effect than the
standard drug glibenclamide.
Keywords: Andrographis paniculata, alloxan, antidaiabetic, antioxidant, blood-glucose, insulin
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Introduction
Diabetes is a serious metabolic disorder with micro and macro vascular complications that results in
significant morbidity and mortality. The increasing number of ageing population, consumption of calories rich diet,
obesity and sedentary life style have led to increase the number of diabetes world wide. The current treatment,
although provide a good glycemic control but do a little in preventing complications (Vats et al., 2004). There is an
increased demand to use natural products with antidiabetic activity due to the side effects associated with the use of
insulin and oral hypoglycemic agents (Holman et al., 1991). The World Health Organization (WHO) (1980) has
also recommended the evaluation of the effectiveness of plants in condition where we lack safe modern drugs
(Upathaya et al., 1991). The pharmaceutical drugs are either too expensive or have undesirable side effects.
Treatment with sulphonylureas and biguanides are also associated with side effects (Rang et al., 1991).
Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f) Nees is used extensively in the Indian traditional system of medicine. In the
present investigation antidiabetic efficacy of the plant extract of Andrographis paniculata on alloxan induced
diabetic rats.
Study area:
Materials and Methods
Adult Wistar rats weighing 160-200 g of either sex were maintained in large polypropylene cages in a wellventilated
room temperature with natural day-night cycle and fed with balanced rodent pellet and water ad libitum
throughout the experimental period. They were quarantined for 1 week prior to the experiments to acclimatize them
to laboratory conditions. The study protocol was approved by the IAEC (Institutional Animal Ethics Committee of
CPCSEA, New Delhi, Govt. of India). Fresh whole plants of Andrographis paniculata were collected from
Sivapuram Pudukkottai District, during the months of September-December 2006 and identified by Dr.P.
Jayaraman (Director), Plant Anatomy Reasearch centre, Chennai. The leaves were collected and dried in shade for
15 days and made to coarse powder and extracted with ethanol by the method of Harborne, 1973. The extract was
preserved in an air tight container, in a refrigerator and used to evaluate the antidiabetic and antioxidant efficacy.
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Alloxan was purchased from Loba chemie. All the other chemicals used in the experiment were analytical
grade. A total of 36 rats (30 diabetic surviving rats, 6 normal rats) were experimented. The rats were divided into 6
groups of 6 rats each. Rats were orally fed with two doses of ethanol extracts (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight per
day) and glibenclamide (600μg/kg). Experimental diabetes was induced by using alloxan monohydrate following
the method of Trivadi et al., 2004.
Blood samples were drawn at weekly intervals till the end of study (i.e., 3 weeks). At the end of 3 weeks, all
the rats were killed by decapitation under pentobarbitone sodium (60 mg/kg) anesthesia. Blood was collected in
tubes containing potassium oxalate and sodium fluoride solution for the estimation of blood glucose and plasma
was separated for assay of insulin. Liver and kidney were dissected out, washed in ice cold saline, patted dry and
weighed. The following biochemical analyses were carried out: Urine Sugar was detected by reagent based Uristix
from Bayer Diagnostics. Total protein, Blood Glucose (Sasaki et al., 1972), estimation of haemoglobin (Dacie and
Lewis, 1977), glycosylated haemoglobin (Bannon, 1982), liver glycogen (Morales et al., 1973), Cholesterol (Zlatkis
et al., 1953), Triglycerides (Foster and Dunn, 1973), Estimation of phospholipids (Rouser et al., 1970), estimation
of Protein (Lowry et al., 1951), estimation of serum albumin, (Reinhold, 1953), Determination of serum aspartete
transaminase (Mohun and Cook, 1957), determination of serum alanine transaminase (Mohun and Cook, 1957),
alkaline Phosphatase (King, 1965), acid phosphatase (Gutman and Gutman, 1940), estimation of urea (Natelson,
1957) assay of catalase (Sinha, 1972) and Vit C (Omaye et al., 1979). Statistical analysis was performed using the
SPSS 11.5 software package. Group mean values were compared with Duncan’s Multiple Range Test and analyzed
with one way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).
Results
Urine sugar was significantly increased in diabetic rats when compare to the control rats,after treatment of
Andrographis paniculata urine sugar level is significantly decreased when compare to the diabetic control rats. A
significant increase in blood glucose and significant reduction in body weight were observed in diabetic rats,
compared to control rats. Oral administration of Andrographis paniculata (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight) for 21
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days shows significant reduction in blood glucose compared to untreated diabetic rats. Blood glucose levels were
found to be increased significantly by % in diabetic control, whereas the rats treated with 100 mg/kg of
Andrographis paniculata showed a decrease at % and 200 mg/kg at %. The decrease in blood glucose levels
was significantly better than the diabetic rats treated with glibenclamide.Haemoglobin levels were found to be
decreased significantly in alloxanized diabetic rats. Liver glycogen,total protein, and albumin were significantly
decreased in diabetic rats when compare to the normal control rats.Administration of Andrographis paniculata
extract significant changes in liver glycogen, total protein and albumin.There was a significant reduction in
heamoglobin and serum protein while glycosylated hemoglobin and blood urea significantly increased in diabetic
rats when compared with control rats. Oral administration of Andrographis paniculata (100 and 200 mg/kg b.wt)
significantly restored the value to near normal. Control animals administered with Andrographis paniculata 200
mg/kg body weight did not show any significant change in any of the parameters studied. A significant increase in
the total cholesterol, triglycerides,urea and phospholipids were found in the liver and kidney of the diabetic rats
compared to the tissue of normal control rats. SGOT, SGPT, ACP and ALP were significantly increased in diabetic
rats when compared to the normal control rats. Catalase and vitamin C levels were significantly decreased in the
serum of the diabetic rats, compared to the normal control rats. Analyzed data are expressed as means with their
standard deviations.
Table-1: Antidiabetic efficacy of Andrographis paniculata.
Experimental
Group
Urine
sugar
Blood glucose
(mg/dl)
Haemoglobin
(g/dl)
Glycosylated
haemoglobin
(mg/Hb)
Liver glycogen
(Mg/g tissue)
Total protein
(g/dl)
Albumin
(g/dl)
Urea
(mg/dl)
Normal control Nil 96.0±3.23a 14.0±0.54c 1.61±0.03a 3.9±0.16d 6.92±0.45d 4.13±0.24d 28.4±2.10a
Diabetic control +++ 224.10±6.67c 9.93±0.42a 3.2±0.14c 2.4±0.08b 4.93±0.26a 3.1±0.26a 39.2±2.72d
Diabetic +APE
(100) mg/kg
+ 134.21±5.38ab 11.5±0.32b 2.21±0.08bc 2.9±0.06a 5.26±0.51b 3.8±0.32bc 35.2±3.1c
Diabetic +APE
(200mg/kg)
+ 124.34±4.9b 13.21±0.52bc 1.91±0.07a 3.4±0.14cd 6.12±0.28cd 3.91±0.36c 29.6±3.2b
Diabetic +
glibenglamide
+ 126.32±3.8b 13.19±0.63bc 2.1±0.08b 3.1±0.12c 5.93±0.35c 3.73±0.29b 31.2±2.9b
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Values are expressed as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD); Level of significance=0.05; APE= Andrographis
paniculata extract
Table-2: Effect of Andrographis paniculata leaf extract on total cholesterol, triglyceroids and
phospholipids.
Experimental
Group
Total
cholesterol
(mg/dl)
Triglycerides
(mg/dl)
Phospolipids
(mg/dl)
Plasma Liver Kidney Plasma Liver Kidney Plasma Liver Kidney
Normal control 4.25±
0.22a
105.16±
5.69a
5.25±
0.27a
5.05±
0.25a
72.13±
3.71a
41.50±
2.06a
94.00±
4.48a
82.00±
4.10a
148.62±
7.49a
Diabetic control 9.50±
0.45d
230.12±
11.25d
9.98±
0.49d
11.01±
0.56d
124.62 ±
6.23d
73.07±
3.80d
158.01±
8.26d
152.01±
6.32d
188.38±
9.57d
Diabetic+APE
(100mg/kg)
5.12±
0.23c
154.13±
6.82c
7.23±
0.52c
8.01±
0.43c
110.52±
5.83c
65.91±
3.01c
112.21±
5.44c
113.52±
5.2c
172.31±
7.21c
Diabetic+APE
(200mg/kg)
4.51±
0.33b
125.42±
5.42b
5.75±
0.30a
7.32±
0.31b
83.84±
4.64b
52.0±
2.71b
107.43±
4.23b
96.36±
5.28b
161.90±
8.10bc
Diabetic +
glibenglamide
5.25±
0.26b
130.12±
6.19bc
6.32±
0.29b
7.90±
0.38b
92.71±
4.48bc
56.50±
2.96bc
108.21±
3.39bc
100.52±
5.87b
154.00±
7.74b
Values are expressed as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD); Level of significance=0.05;
APE= Andrographis paniculata extract
Table-3: Antioxidant efficacy of Andrographis paniculata leaves.
Experimental
Group
SGOT
(IU/L)
SGPT
(U/L)
Acid
phospatase
(IU/L)
Alkaline
phospatase
(IU/L)
Catalase
(μ moles of
H2O2
utlized/min
/mg/protein)
Vitamin C
(mg/dL-1)
Normal control 78.54±3.88a 67.04±3.43a 5.67±0.29a 9.56±0.48a 24.70±1.18 12.50±0.62
Diabetic control 147.50 ±6.76d 95.78±4.96d 8.50±0.48d 23.85± 1.41d 14.10±0.82 7.50±0.53
Diabetic +APE
(100 mg/kg)
110.50±7.21c 82.13±3.56c 7.21±0.52c 14.81±0.51c 18.82±1.06 8.93±0.62
Diabetic +APE
(200mg/kg)
Diabetic +
glibenglamide
97.70±5.21bc
90.03±4.53b
78.54±4.23b
82.37±4.13c
6.02±0.33b
7.08±0.41bc
11.68±0.65b
12.75±0.72bc
21.06± 1.01
17.87±0.93
11.02±0.61
10.21±0.67
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Values are expressed as Mean ± Standard Deviation (SD); Level of significance=0.05;
APE= Andrographis paniculata extract
Discussion
Blood sugar increased in alloxan-injected animals, since alloxan causes a massive reduction in insulin release,
by the destruction of the beta-cells of the Islets of Langerhans and inducing hyperglycemia (Goldner and Gomori,
1943). Oral administration of (100 and 200 mg/kg Andrographis paniculata body wt.) resulted in a significant
reduction in the blood glucose. Protein synthesis is decreased in all tissues due to absolute or relative deficiency of
insulin in alloxan-induced diabetic rats (Jorda et al.,1982). Present result protein level in diabetic rats significantly
decreased when compares to the control rats. . A significant elevation in serum creatinine and urea levels indicate an
impaired renal function of diabetic animals.( Shinde and Goyal,2003). In the present study urea level was
significantly increased in diabetic rats.
The present study also indicates that Andrographis paniculata can inhibit alloxan renal toxicity as evident from
the blood urea level. In the present study, the glycosylated hemoglobin level was high showing that the diabetic
animals had high blood glucose level. The values decreased significantly in Andrographis paniculata administered
animals showing the influence of the leaf extracts on sugar reduction. Insulin influences the intracellular utilization
of glucose in a number of ways. Increase in glycogen in liver can be brought about by an increase in glycogenesis
and/or a decrease in glycogenolysis. So the Andrographis paniculata extract could have stimulated glycogenesis
and/or inhibited glycogenolysis in the diabetic rat liver. Insulin and sulfonylurea drugs (e.g., glibenclamide) cause
hypoglycemia when taken in excessive doses and overt hypoglycemia is the most worrisome effect of these drugs
(Chakrabarti and Rajagopalan, 2002). The significant increase in the level of triglycerides in liver and kidney of
diabetic control rats may be due to the lack of insulin. Since under normal condition, insulin activates the enzyme
lipoprotein lipase and hydrolysis triglycerides (Frayn, 1993). Andrographis paniculata reduces triglycerides,
cholesterol and phospolipids in tissues of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. Further more, the present study reveals,
higher levels of triglycerides, cholesterol and phospholipids in diabetic rats (Khosla, 1995).The decrease in protein
and albumin may be due to microproteinuria and albuminuria, which are important clinical markers of diabetic
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nephropathy (Mauer et al., 1981) and/or may be due to increased protein catabolism (Almdal and Vilstrup, 1988).
The results of the present study demonstrated that the treatment of diabetic rats with the aqueous extract of
Andrographis paniculata caused a noticeable elevation in the plasma total protein and albumin levels as compared
with their normal levels. Such improvement of serum protein and albumin was previously observed after the oral
administration of Balanites aegyptiaca to experimentally diabetic rats (Mansour and Newairy, 2000). A significant
elevation in serum urea levels indicates an impaired renal function of diabetic animals (Shinde and Goyal, 2003).
Thus, it would appear that the Andrographis paniculata leaves supplement lowered the plasma urea levels by
enhancing the renal function that is generally impaired in diabetic rats. These results are similar to other previous
studies on the mesocarp extract of B. aegyptiaca (Saeed et al., 1995) and herbal formulation D-400 (Dubey et al.,
1994). The serum AST and ALT levels increased as a result of metabolic changes in the liver, such as
administration of toxin, cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis and liver cancer including diabetes (Chalasani et al., 2004).
Similarly in the present study, it was observed that the levels of serum AST and ALT in alloxan induced diabetic
rats were elevated. It may be due to leaking of enzymes from the tissues and migrating into the circulation by the
adverse effect of alloxan (Stanely, 1999). AST and ALT were used as markers to assess the extent of liver damage
in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats (Hye et al., 2005). In this study, the administration of ethanol extract to
alloxan-induced diabetic rats reduces AST and ALT levels.
The serum AST and ALT levels increase as a result of metabolic changes in the liver, such as
administration of toxin, cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis and liver cancer including diabetes.44 Similarly in the
present study, it was observed that the levels of serum AST and ALT in alloxan induced diabetic rats were elevated.
It may be due to leaking out of enzymes from the tissues and migrating into the circulation by the adverse effect of
alloxan.45 AST and ALT were used as markers to assess the extent of liver damage in streptozotocin induced
diabetic rats.46 In this study, the administration of water soluble fraction of ethanol extract to alloxan-induced
diabetic rats reduces AST and ALT levels efficiently than aqueous extract treated rats. In addition to the assessment
of AST and ALT levels during diabetes, the measurement of enzymatic activities of phosphatases such as acid
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phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is of clinical and toxicological importance as changes in their
activities are indicative of tissue damage by toxicants.47 In our study, serum ACP and ALP increased considerably
in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Elevated level of these enzymes in diabetes may be due to extensive damage to
liver in the experimental animals by alloxan. Treatment with water soluble fraction of ethanol extract in alloxaninduced
diabetic rats produces a more significant decline in these levels than the aqueous extract treated rats. From
the present observation, it was evident that water soluble fraction of ethanol extract protects the adverse effects of
lipid peroxide mediated tissue damage in alloxan induced diabetic rats.
In addition to the assessment of AST and ALT levels during diabetes, the measurement of enzymatic
activities of phosphatases such as acid phosphatase (ACP) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is of clinical and
toxicological importance as changes in their activities are indicative of tissue damage by toxicants (Som Nath
Singh, et al., 2001). In Present study, serum ACP and ALP increased considerably in alloxan induced diabetic rats.
Elevated level of these enzymes in diabetes may be due to extensive damage to liver in the experimental animals by
alloxan.
Catalase causes reduction of H2O2 whereas GPx reduces H2O2 and lipid peroxides (Shull and Marsh, 1991).
Several studies have demonstrated lowered non-enzymatic antioxidant levels and enzymatic antioxidant activities in
streptozotocin induced diabetic rats (Ananthan et al., 2004; Venkateswaran, 2002). In the present study A.
paniculata leaf extract is found to increase serum concentrations of catalase (CAT). Vitamin C, a major extra
cellular non-enzymatic antioxidant, has crucial role in scavenging several reactive oxygen species. It functions as a
free-radical scavenger and successfully prevents detectable oxidative damage under all types of oxidative stress.
Reduction in tissue ascorbic acid was observed in STZ-diabetic rats. The decrease could have been due to increased
utilization of ascorbic acid as an antioxidant defense against increased reactive oxygen species or to a decrease in
the GSH level, since GSH is required for the recycling of ascorbic acid (Hunt, 1996). The present study reveals that
considerable changes in all parameters after the treatment of A. paniculata leaf extract.
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Conclusion: Therefore, A. Paniculata an indigenous herb shows potential antioxidant and antidiabetic properties,
which could be due to the presence of potent antihyperglycaemic factors. Further study is underway in our
laboratory to isolate the active principles.
Acknowledgement: Authors are thankful to the management of J.J College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai,
Tamil Nadu, India for providing the general basic laboratory facilities.
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42. Chalasani N, Aljadhey H, Kesterson J, Murray MD, Hall SD. Patients with elevated liver enzymes are not
act high risk for statin hepatotoxicity. Gastroentero.,2004, 126: 1287 – 1292.
43. Stanely P, Mainzen Prince P, Venugopal Menon(1999). Hypoglycemic and other related actions of
Tinospora cordifolia roots in alloxan induced diabetic rats. J Ethnopharmacol 1999; 70: 9-15.
44. Hye-Jin Hwang, Sang – Woo kim, Jong – Min lim, Ji – Hoon joo, Hyun – oh kim, Hyun – Mi kim, Jong –
Won yun. Hypoglycemic effect of crude epoxypolysaccharides produced by a medicinal mushroom
Phellinus baumii in Streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Life sci 2005; 76: 3069-3080.
Corresponding Auhtor:
Ravikumar. R*
Email: ravimicrobiotech@gmail.com
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Accreditation of Siddha hospitals.
http://www.qcin.org/nabh/iapah/Siddha/gib_Siddha.pdf
PLS FOLLOW THE ABOVE LINK TO KNOW ABOUT NABH ACCREDTATION TO SIDDHA HOSPITALS.
PLS FOLLOW THE ABOVE LINK TO KNOW ABOUT NABH ACCREDTATION TO SIDDHA HOSPITALS.
Insurance claims for Siddha medicine included.
1.http://www.myinsuranceclub.com/health-insurance/hdfc-ergo-health-suraksha
2.http://www.policymantra.com/blog/news/295-medical-insurance-may-cover-ayurveda-unani-siddha.html
3.http://m.economictimes.com/PDAET/personal-finance/insurance/insurance-news/Ayurveda-too-comes-under-mediclaim-cover/articleshow/9353426.cms
4.http://www.healthinsurancebox.com/page/6/
5.http://www.bimadeals.com/insurance/health-insurance/some-insurance-companies-include-ayurveda-under-their-cover/
the above links takes you for coverage of Insurance In siddha system.
2.http://www.policymantra.com/blog/news/295-medical-insurance-may-cover-ayurveda-unani-siddha.html
3.http://m.economictimes.com/PDAET/personal-finance/insurance/insurance-news/Ayurveda-too-comes-under-mediclaim-cover/articleshow/9353426.cms
4.http://www.healthinsurancebox.com/page/6/
5.http://www.bimadeals.com/insurance/health-insurance/some-insurance-companies-include-ayurveda-under-their-cover/
the above links takes you for coverage of Insurance In siddha system.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Prophylactic Role of a Herbomineral Drug "Thamira Parpam" Against Cysteamine-Induced Oxidative Stress in Liver and Duodenum of Rats
Prophylactic Role of a Herbomineral Drug "Thamira Parpam" Against Cysteamine-Induced Oxidative Stress in Liver and Duodenum of Rats.
RP Parameswari, M Vasanthkumar, V Gayathri, VM Manikandamathavan, G Ramakrishnan, MK Sangeetha, V Vijayakumar, HB Raghavendran, D Chamundeeswari, HR Vasanthi
Copper is known as Gunma Kaalan in Siddha literature, which means that the drug is effective for healing ulcers. The herbomineral drug "Thamira parpam" is prepared by calcining the purified copper foils with rock salt, lime juice, bracteated birth wort juice, and Alangium root decoction according to Siddha medicine. Our study investigated the possible role of Thamira parpam (TP) in the management of cysteamine-induced duodenal ulcers. Cysteamine (400 mg kg(-1) body weight(-1), two doses at 4 h interval) orally given to rats resulted in high ulcer index, increased TBARS with concomitant depletion of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and inflammatory markers cathepsin D, and myeloperoxidase (p < 0.01). Herbomineral drug TP (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg, p.o.) challenged with cysteamine attenuated the elevation of TBARS and imbalance of antioxidants. In the increases in liver inflammatory markers, tissue histopathology changes were not severe in TP treatment. Positive control omeprazole (25 mg/kg, body weight, orally) showed considerable protection against anomaly in biochemical parameters and tissue histology. Hence, our results indicate that the attenuation of oxidative stress by the herbomineral drug in experimentally induced damage to liver and duodenum of rats could be mediated by free radical quenching property.
RP Parameswari, M Vasanthkumar, V Gayathri, VM Manikandamathavan, G Ramakrishnan, MK Sangeetha, V Vijayakumar, HB Raghavendran, D Chamundeeswari, HR Vasanthi
Copper is known as Gunma Kaalan in Siddha literature, which means that the drug is effective for healing ulcers. The herbomineral drug "Thamira parpam" is prepared by calcining the purified copper foils with rock salt, lime juice, bracteated birth wort juice, and Alangium root decoction according to Siddha medicine. Our study investigated the possible role of Thamira parpam (TP) in the management of cysteamine-induced duodenal ulcers. Cysteamine (400 mg kg(-1) body weight(-1), two doses at 4 h interval) orally given to rats resulted in high ulcer index, increased TBARS with concomitant depletion of antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and inflammatory markers cathepsin D, and myeloperoxidase (p < 0.01). Herbomineral drug TP (0.5, 1, and 2 mg/kg, p.o.) challenged with cysteamine attenuated the elevation of TBARS and imbalance of antioxidants. In the increases in liver inflammatory markers, tissue histopathology changes were not severe in TP treatment. Positive control omeprazole (25 mg/kg, body weight, orally) showed considerable protection against anomaly in biochemical parameters and tissue histology. Hence, our results indicate that the attenuation of oxidative stress by the herbomineral drug in experimentally induced damage to liver and duodenum of rats could be mediated by free radical quenching property.
Sunday, July 17, 2011
HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDIES OF THE EFFECT OF NAGA PARPAM, A ZINC BASED DRUG OF SIDDHA MEDICINE, IN RATS
1869
Journal of Cell and Tissue Research Vol. 9(2) 1869-1873 (2009)
ISSN: 0974- 0910 (Available online at www.tcrjournals.com) Original Article
HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDIES OF THE EFFECT OF NAGA
PARPAM, A ZINC BASED DRUG OF SIDDHA MEDICINE, IN RATS
ILANGO, B., DAWOOD SHARIEF, S., VINOTH KUMAR,K., RAJKUMAR, R.,
PRATHIBA, D.1 AND SUKUMAR,E.2
Received:May 17, 2009;Accepted: July 4, 2009
School of Environmental Sciences, Post Graduate and Research Department of Zoology, The New College, Chennai
– 600 014, 1Department of Pathology, Sri RamachandraMedical College and Research Institute, Sri
Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai-600116, 2Department ofApplied Sciences, Higher College of
Technology, P.B.74,P.C.133,Muscat, Sultanate ofOman. E. mail: sdawoodsharief@yahoo.co.in
Abstract: Siddha medicine, one of the oldest traditional medical systems of India, uses metals
and minerals as drugs extensively in addition to plants and animal products to treat several
diseases. Naga Parpam (NP), a metallic preparation containing zinc as the major constituent
and used in treatment of piles, tuberculosis and dysentery, has been chosen for assessing its effect
on the tissues of vital organs in rats. The drug was administrated orally in doses of 5, 10, 20 and
40 mg/kg body weight to the animals for 15, 30 and 60 consecutive days. The results revealed
that in 15 day treatment, liver and kidney had normal histology with no marked changes in the
tissue architecture. In 30 day study, the kidney tissues remained normal while the liver tissues
exhibited a few apoptotic cells with mild focal and lobular inflammation. On 60 day treatment,
liver showed mild lobular inflammation and apoptotic cells were found in all doses. However
brain, kidney and testis remained normal even in higher doses. The results suggest that NP does
not show any toxicity in short term administration which is advocated in Siddha literature for all
metal based drugs.
Key words: Naga Parpam, Siddha medicine, Histopathology
?
INTRODUCTION
In India, the traditional medicines viz. Ayurveda,
Siddha and Unani are serving the people to a
considerable extent especially in rural areas and
places not served by allopathic medicine. In Siddha
medicine, a popular system practiced in South India,
metals such as copper, zinc, mercury, silver, gold etc.
are extensively employed in drug preparations that
are used to treat some baffling diseases [1]. These
metals, which exert toxic effects on living organisms
even in small doses, are purified using specialized
traditional techniques by repeatedly triturating with
herbal juices and ashing them in sealed earthenware
containers, to free them from toxicity. Further these
techniques also change their properties and render
them useful as therapeutically active products [2-4].
The present investigation has been undertaken to
examine the toxic effects of Naga parpam on liver
and kidney tissues in 15, 30 and 60 days treatment in
rat model.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Drug: Naga parpam prepared according to the
procedure mentioned in the traditional Siddha
literature [5] was procured from the Indian Medical
Practitioners’ Co-operative Pharmacy and Stores
(IMPCOPS), Chennai. Analysis of Naga parpam
by S4 pioneer wavelength dispersion X-ray
fluorescence spectrometer (WDXRFS, Bruker-AXS,
Germany) at SophisticatedAnalytical Instrumentation
Facility, IIT, Madras revealed 65.59% of zinc and
2.27% of iron.
1870
J. Cell Tissue Research
a1 a 2
a 3 a 4
Animals: Male albino rats of Wistar strain (180 –
200 g) obtained from the Tamil Nadu University of
Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Chennai and
maintained according to the guidelines of CPCSEA,
under the supervision of Animal Ethics Committee
were used for the experiment. They were acclimatized
to laboratory conditions prior to use and fed
with pelletted chow (supplied by Poultry Research
Station, Chennai) and water provided ad libitum.
The animals were divided into five groups each
containing 6 rats. Group I served as control and to
the other four groups, the drug NP was orally
administered in doses of 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg body
weight, as a suspension in 1% carboxymethyl
cellulose by intubation for 15 consecutive days. To
find the effect of chronic administration on various
tissues, the drug was also administered to two other
sets of animals in the same manner respectively for
30 and 60 days. The doses for the studies were
chosen based on the preliminary toxicity screening
[6]. The animals were sacrificed by decapitation on
the 16th, 31st and 61st day and the vital organs such
as brain, liver, kidney and testis were removed in
control and drug treated animals, washed with 1%
ice cold saline and fixed in neutral buffered 10%
formalin. The tissues were trimmed and processed
as per the procedure of Pearse [7]. 3-5 μm paraffin
sections were stained with haematoxylin, eosin and
mounted. The slides were examined under light
microscope.
RESULTS
Liver and kidney were selected for evaluation as
they are sensitive to metal toxicity. In the 15 days
treatment set, the tissues of liver and kidney revealed
normal histology with all the doses of NP, and no
changes in the tissue architecture were observed. In
30 days set, the kidney tissues remained normal in all
the doses while liver tissues showed a few apoptotic
cells withmild focal, lobular inflammation in 5mg/kg
dose. With other doses therewas mild periportal inflammation,
lobular inflammation and fewapoptotic cells
(Figs. 1,2).
In 60 days study, NP showed marked changes in the
liver tissues (Fig 3). As the dosage increased from
5-40 mg/kg, mild periportal inflammation, lobular
inflammation, regeneration of hepatocytes and
apoptotic cells were found. However the tissues of
brain, kidney, testis remained normal (Figs. 4-6].
DISCUSSION
Zinc is an essential element and nontoxic in minute
doses [8]. It plays an essential role in cell membrane
integrity and is a component ofmore than 300 different
enzymes of cellular metabolism, involving proteins,
lipids and carbohydrates [9]. The metal has been
reported to interact with cell membranes to stabilize
them against various damaging effects, including
oxidative injuries [10].
Fig. a1: T. S. of liver demonstrating normal
lobules in control rat.
Fig. a2: T. S. of kidney demonstrating
normal structure in control rat.
Fig. a3: T. S. of brain demonstrating normal
structure in control rat.
Fig. a4: T. S. of testis demonstrating
normal structure in control rat.
Abbreviations used in figures: AC – Apoptotic cells, BC – Binucleated cells, CV – Central vein, HC – Hepatic cords, LI –
Lobular inflammation, PI – Periportal inflammation, SN – Sinusoids, CT – Collecting Tubules, BC – Bowman’s Capsule, G –
Glomeruli, CT – Collecting Tubules, DE – Ductus Epididymis, GM – Grey Matter, GL – Granular Layer, PC – Purkinje Cells,
WM –White Matter, AC – Apoptotic Cells, HC – Hepatic Cells, RH – Regenerating Hepatocyte, LI – Lobular Inflammation
1871
Fig.1 Fig. 2
Fig. 1(f-i): T.S. of liver of rat treated with Naga parpam tract
for 15 days. x 100 (Figs.1 b-e) and 30 days. x 200
b & f - Naga parpam treated with 10mg/kg body weight;
c & g - Naga parpam treated with 20mg/kg body weight;
d & h - Naga parpam treated with 30mg/kg body weight;
e & i - Naga parpam treated with 40mg/kg body weight.
Fig. 2(f-i): T.S. of kidney of rat treated with Naga parpam
tract for 15 days. x 100 (Figs. b-e) and 30 days. x 200
b & f - Naga parpam treated with 10mg/kg body weight;
c & g - Naga parpam treated with 20mg/kg body weight;
d & h - Naga parpam treated with 30mg/kg body weight;
e & i - Naga parpam treated with 40mg/kg body weight
Ilango et al.
1872
J. Cell Tissue Research
Fig.3 Fig.4 Fig.5 Fig.6
Histology of rat liver (Fig. 3), kidney (Fig. 4), brain (Fig. 5) and testis (Fig. 6) treated with Naga Parpam for 60 days
b - Naga parpam treated with 10mg/kg body weight
c - Naga parpam treated with 20mg/kg body weight;
d - Naga parpam treated with 30mg/kg body weight;
e - Naga parpam treated with 40mg/kg body weight.
1873
In the present investigation NP in short term
administration did not affect the liver and kidney
tissues as they showed normal histology with no
obvious changes in their tissue architecture. However,
in the 30 days treatment, the liver tissues of animals
treated with 5 mg/kg dose of NP exhibited a few
apoptotic cells with mild focal and lobular inflammation.
In higher doses (10-40 mg/kg), there was
mild periportal and lobular inflammation. These
observations indicated that continuous administration
of NP in high doses may affect the functioning of
vital organs such as liver and kidney.Allen et al. [11]
reported the hepatic lesion formation in tissues of
zinc sulphate treated sheep for 13 days. Fatty
infiltration of liver and nephrosis were reported in 21
day treatment with zinc by Straube et al. [12].
In long termstudies with NP, toxic symptoms of mild
periportal inflammation, lobular inflammation, regeneration
of hepatocytes and apoptotic cells were
observed in the tissues of liver while in rest of organs
there were no appreciable changes. In the earlier
studies by Allen et al. [11] hepatic lesions were
observed in sheep treated with zinc for 72 days.
Similarly histopathological lesions accompanied by
increased liver, kidney and brain weights were
observed in rats on 13 week treatment [13].
The present observations also reinforce the importance
of strict adherence to the prescriptions of
traditional medical practitioners in dosage as well as
duration while using these metallic preparations.Any
over usage or self medication may invariably lead to
adverse reactions as mentioned in the age old
literature.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors thank the Head, Post Graduate and
Research Department of Zoology, Principal and the
Management of The New College, Chennai, India
for providing the necessary facilities and encouragement.
REFERENCES
[1] Subbarayappa, B.V.: Lancet. 350, 1841-1844 (1997).
[2] Said, M. In: Hamdard Pharmacopoeia of Eastern
Medicine. Hamdard Foundation, Karachi, Pakistan,
pp. 233-234 (1969).
[3] Chopra, R.N., Chopra, I.C., Handa., K L., and Kapur,
L.D.. In: Chopra’s Indigenous Drugs of India.
(Chopra, R.N. ed) Academic Publishers, Calcutta,
India, pp 461- 464 (1982).
[4]Vohara, S.B., Kim, H.S., Ganotra, K.B.,Mishra, G.V.,
Ayesha, Bajaj, S. and Athar, M.: Investigations on
the use of Arsenic, Lead, Mercury, Gold and Silver
in Indian Medicines. Abstract. 2nd National
Conference and Workshop of Ethanopharmacology
on 2nd- 4th October at JSS College of Pharmacy,
Mysore, India. (1997).
[5] Anonymous, Formulary of Siddha Medicines, The
IndianMedical Practitioners Co-operative Pharmacy
and Stores Ltd. (IMCOPS),Madras. 12-13: 26-55; 155-
172 (1972).
[6] Ilango, B., Biochemical and Toxicological Evaluation
of Some Metallic Drugs in Siddha Medicine. PhD
Thesis, University ofMadras, India, pp. 57-58 (2007).
[7] Pearse, A.G. Histochemistry: Theoretical and applied,
Vol 1 and 2, (4th edn.), Churchill Livingstone,
Edinburgh (1985).
[8] Bertholf, R.L.. Zinc. In: Handbook on Toxicity of
Inorganic Compounds (Sigel, H. and Seiler, H.G. eds),
Marcel Dekker, Inc., NewYork. pp. 787-800 (1988).
[9] Parkin, G.: Science 305, 1117-1118 (2004).
[10]Bettger,W.J. andO’Dell, B.L.: Life Sci., 28: 1425-1438
(1981).
[11]Allen, J.G.,Master,H.G. and Peet,R.L.: J.Comp.Pathol.
93:363-377 (1983).
[12] Straube,E.F.; Schuster,N.H. andSinclair,A.J.: J.Comp.
Pathol. 90: 355-361 (1980).
[13] Bai, K.M., Krishnakumari,M.K. and Ramesh, H.P.:
Indian J. Exptl.Biol. 18: 854-857 (1980
Ilango et al.
Journal of Cell and Tissue Research Vol. 9(2) 1869-1873 (2009)
ISSN: 0974- 0910 (Available online at www.tcrjournals.com) Original Article
HISTOPATHOLOGICAL STUDIES OF THE EFFECT OF NAGA
PARPAM, A ZINC BASED DRUG OF SIDDHA MEDICINE, IN RATS
ILANGO, B., DAWOOD SHARIEF, S., VINOTH KUMAR,K., RAJKUMAR, R.,
PRATHIBA, D.1 AND SUKUMAR,E.2
Received:May 17, 2009;Accepted: July 4, 2009
School of Environmental Sciences, Post Graduate and Research Department of Zoology, The New College, Chennai
– 600 014, 1Department of Pathology, Sri RamachandraMedical College and Research Institute, Sri
Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai-600116, 2Department ofApplied Sciences, Higher College of
Technology, P.B.74,P.C.133,Muscat, Sultanate ofOman. E. mail: sdawoodsharief@yahoo.co.in
Abstract: Siddha medicine, one of the oldest traditional medical systems of India, uses metals
and minerals as drugs extensively in addition to plants and animal products to treat several
diseases. Naga Parpam (NP), a metallic preparation containing zinc as the major constituent
and used in treatment of piles, tuberculosis and dysentery, has been chosen for assessing its effect
on the tissues of vital organs in rats. The drug was administrated orally in doses of 5, 10, 20 and
40 mg/kg body weight to the animals for 15, 30 and 60 consecutive days. The results revealed
that in 15 day treatment, liver and kidney had normal histology with no marked changes in the
tissue architecture. In 30 day study, the kidney tissues remained normal while the liver tissues
exhibited a few apoptotic cells with mild focal and lobular inflammation. On 60 day treatment,
liver showed mild lobular inflammation and apoptotic cells were found in all doses. However
brain, kidney and testis remained normal even in higher doses. The results suggest that NP does
not show any toxicity in short term administration which is advocated in Siddha literature for all
metal based drugs.
Key words: Naga Parpam, Siddha medicine, Histopathology
?
INTRODUCTION
In India, the traditional medicines viz. Ayurveda,
Siddha and Unani are serving the people to a
considerable extent especially in rural areas and
places not served by allopathic medicine. In Siddha
medicine, a popular system practiced in South India,
metals such as copper, zinc, mercury, silver, gold etc.
are extensively employed in drug preparations that
are used to treat some baffling diseases [1]. These
metals, which exert toxic effects on living organisms
even in small doses, are purified using specialized
traditional techniques by repeatedly triturating with
herbal juices and ashing them in sealed earthenware
containers, to free them from toxicity. Further these
techniques also change their properties and render
them useful as therapeutically active products [2-4].
The present investigation has been undertaken to
examine the toxic effects of Naga parpam on liver
and kidney tissues in 15, 30 and 60 days treatment in
rat model.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Drug: Naga parpam prepared according to the
procedure mentioned in the traditional Siddha
literature [5] was procured from the Indian Medical
Practitioners’ Co-operative Pharmacy and Stores
(IMPCOPS), Chennai. Analysis of Naga parpam
by S4 pioneer wavelength dispersion X-ray
fluorescence spectrometer (WDXRFS, Bruker-AXS,
Germany) at SophisticatedAnalytical Instrumentation
Facility, IIT, Madras revealed 65.59% of zinc and
2.27% of iron.
1870
J. Cell Tissue Research
a1 a 2
a 3 a 4
Animals: Male albino rats of Wistar strain (180 –
200 g) obtained from the Tamil Nadu University of
Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Chennai and
maintained according to the guidelines of CPCSEA,
under the supervision of Animal Ethics Committee
were used for the experiment. They were acclimatized
to laboratory conditions prior to use and fed
with pelletted chow (supplied by Poultry Research
Station, Chennai) and water provided ad libitum.
The animals were divided into five groups each
containing 6 rats. Group I served as control and to
the other four groups, the drug NP was orally
administered in doses of 5, 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg body
weight, as a suspension in 1% carboxymethyl
cellulose by intubation for 15 consecutive days. To
find the effect of chronic administration on various
tissues, the drug was also administered to two other
sets of animals in the same manner respectively for
30 and 60 days. The doses for the studies were
chosen based on the preliminary toxicity screening
[6]. The animals were sacrificed by decapitation on
the 16th, 31st and 61st day and the vital organs such
as brain, liver, kidney and testis were removed in
control and drug treated animals, washed with 1%
ice cold saline and fixed in neutral buffered 10%
formalin. The tissues were trimmed and processed
as per the procedure of Pearse [7]. 3-5 μm paraffin
sections were stained with haematoxylin, eosin and
mounted. The slides were examined under light
microscope.
RESULTS
Liver and kidney were selected for evaluation as
they are sensitive to metal toxicity. In the 15 days
treatment set, the tissues of liver and kidney revealed
normal histology with all the doses of NP, and no
changes in the tissue architecture were observed. In
30 days set, the kidney tissues remained normal in all
the doses while liver tissues showed a few apoptotic
cells withmild focal, lobular inflammation in 5mg/kg
dose. With other doses therewas mild periportal inflammation,
lobular inflammation and fewapoptotic cells
(Figs. 1,2).
In 60 days study, NP showed marked changes in the
liver tissues (Fig 3). As the dosage increased from
5-40 mg/kg, mild periportal inflammation, lobular
inflammation, regeneration of hepatocytes and
apoptotic cells were found. However the tissues of
brain, kidney, testis remained normal (Figs. 4-6].
DISCUSSION
Zinc is an essential element and nontoxic in minute
doses [8]. It plays an essential role in cell membrane
integrity and is a component ofmore than 300 different
enzymes of cellular metabolism, involving proteins,
lipids and carbohydrates [9]. The metal has been
reported to interact with cell membranes to stabilize
them against various damaging effects, including
oxidative injuries [10].
Fig. a1: T. S. of liver demonstrating normal
lobules in control rat.
Fig. a2: T. S. of kidney demonstrating
normal structure in control rat.
Fig. a3: T. S. of brain demonstrating normal
structure in control rat.
Fig. a4: T. S. of testis demonstrating
normal structure in control rat.
Abbreviations used in figures: AC – Apoptotic cells, BC – Binucleated cells, CV – Central vein, HC – Hepatic cords, LI –
Lobular inflammation, PI – Periportal inflammation, SN – Sinusoids, CT – Collecting Tubules, BC – Bowman’s Capsule, G –
Glomeruli, CT – Collecting Tubules, DE – Ductus Epididymis, GM – Grey Matter, GL – Granular Layer, PC – Purkinje Cells,
WM –White Matter, AC – Apoptotic Cells, HC – Hepatic Cells, RH – Regenerating Hepatocyte, LI – Lobular Inflammation
1871
Fig.1 Fig. 2
Fig. 1(f-i): T.S. of liver of rat treated with Naga parpam tract
for 15 days. x 100 (Figs.1 b-e) and 30 days. x 200
b & f - Naga parpam treated with 10mg/kg body weight;
c & g - Naga parpam treated with 20mg/kg body weight;
d & h - Naga parpam treated with 30mg/kg body weight;
e & i - Naga parpam treated with 40mg/kg body weight.
Fig. 2(f-i): T.S. of kidney of rat treated with Naga parpam
tract for 15 days. x 100 (Figs. b-e) and 30 days. x 200
b & f - Naga parpam treated with 10mg/kg body weight;
c & g - Naga parpam treated with 20mg/kg body weight;
d & h - Naga parpam treated with 30mg/kg body weight;
e & i - Naga parpam treated with 40mg/kg body weight
Ilango et al.
1872
J. Cell Tissue Research
Fig.3 Fig.4 Fig.5 Fig.6
Histology of rat liver (Fig. 3), kidney (Fig. 4), brain (Fig. 5) and testis (Fig. 6) treated with Naga Parpam for 60 days
b - Naga parpam treated with 10mg/kg body weight
c - Naga parpam treated with 20mg/kg body weight;
d - Naga parpam treated with 30mg/kg body weight;
e - Naga parpam treated with 40mg/kg body weight.
1873
In the present investigation NP in short term
administration did not affect the liver and kidney
tissues as they showed normal histology with no
obvious changes in their tissue architecture. However,
in the 30 days treatment, the liver tissues of animals
treated with 5 mg/kg dose of NP exhibited a few
apoptotic cells with mild focal and lobular inflammation.
In higher doses (10-40 mg/kg), there was
mild periportal and lobular inflammation. These
observations indicated that continuous administration
of NP in high doses may affect the functioning of
vital organs such as liver and kidney.Allen et al. [11]
reported the hepatic lesion formation in tissues of
zinc sulphate treated sheep for 13 days. Fatty
infiltration of liver and nephrosis were reported in 21
day treatment with zinc by Straube et al. [12].
In long termstudies with NP, toxic symptoms of mild
periportal inflammation, lobular inflammation, regeneration
of hepatocytes and apoptotic cells were
observed in the tissues of liver while in rest of organs
there were no appreciable changes. In the earlier
studies by Allen et al. [11] hepatic lesions were
observed in sheep treated with zinc for 72 days.
Similarly histopathological lesions accompanied by
increased liver, kidney and brain weights were
observed in rats on 13 week treatment [13].
The present observations also reinforce the importance
of strict adherence to the prescriptions of
traditional medical practitioners in dosage as well as
duration while using these metallic preparations.Any
over usage or self medication may invariably lead to
adverse reactions as mentioned in the age old
literature.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors thank the Head, Post Graduate and
Research Department of Zoology, Principal and the
Management of The New College, Chennai, India
for providing the necessary facilities and encouragement.
REFERENCES
[1] Subbarayappa, B.V.: Lancet. 350, 1841-1844 (1997).
[2] Said, M. In: Hamdard Pharmacopoeia of Eastern
Medicine. Hamdard Foundation, Karachi, Pakistan,
pp. 233-234 (1969).
[3] Chopra, R.N., Chopra, I.C., Handa., K L., and Kapur,
L.D.. In: Chopra’s Indigenous Drugs of India.
(Chopra, R.N. ed) Academic Publishers, Calcutta,
India, pp 461- 464 (1982).
[4]Vohara, S.B., Kim, H.S., Ganotra, K.B.,Mishra, G.V.,
Ayesha, Bajaj, S. and Athar, M.: Investigations on
the use of Arsenic, Lead, Mercury, Gold and Silver
in Indian Medicines. Abstract. 2nd National
Conference and Workshop of Ethanopharmacology
on 2nd- 4th October at JSS College of Pharmacy,
Mysore, India. (1997).
[5] Anonymous, Formulary of Siddha Medicines, The
IndianMedical Practitioners Co-operative Pharmacy
and Stores Ltd. (IMCOPS),Madras. 12-13: 26-55; 155-
172 (1972).
[6] Ilango, B., Biochemical and Toxicological Evaluation
of Some Metallic Drugs in Siddha Medicine. PhD
Thesis, University ofMadras, India, pp. 57-58 (2007).
[7] Pearse, A.G. Histochemistry: Theoretical and applied,
Vol 1 and 2, (4th edn.), Churchill Livingstone,
Edinburgh (1985).
[8] Bertholf, R.L.. Zinc. In: Handbook on Toxicity of
Inorganic Compounds (Sigel, H. and Seiler, H.G. eds),
Marcel Dekker, Inc., NewYork. pp. 787-800 (1988).
[9] Parkin, G.: Science 305, 1117-1118 (2004).
[10]Bettger,W.J. andO’Dell, B.L.: Life Sci., 28: 1425-1438
(1981).
[11]Allen, J.G.,Master,H.G. and Peet,R.L.: J.Comp.Pathol.
93:363-377 (1983).
[12] Straube,E.F.; Schuster,N.H. andSinclair,A.J.: J.Comp.
Pathol. 90: 355-361 (1980).
[13] Bai, K.M., Krishnakumari,M.K. and Ramesh, H.P.:
Indian J. Exptl.Biol. 18: 854-857 (1980
Ilango et al.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Eucalyptol- from Amukkara choornam- Siddha formulation-HPTLC
Follow this link to read the full article .
http://scholarsresearchlibrary.com/DPL-vol2-iss6/DPL-2010-2-6-316-320.pdf
http://scholarsresearchlibrary.com/DPL-vol2-iss6/DPL-2010-2-6-316-320.pdf
Monday, July 11, 2011
Pitta sura kudineer -A Siddha formulation Pharmacological activity
p[ls follow the link to read full article
http://iajpr.com/index.php/en/faq/32-uncategorised/104-27balachandarabstract,
Abstract
Preliminary phytochemical screening, acute toxicity study and anti-inflammatory activity of Pitta sura kudineer
S. Balachandar*1, R. Nandini1, V. Rajalakshimi1, J. Esther Jayasheela1, P. Sathiyarajeswaran2
1Institute of Pharmacology, Madras Medical College, Chennai, TN, India
2Central Research Institute for Siddha, Chennai, TN, India
Abstract
The ethanolic extract of the aerial parts and roots of Pitta sura kudineer formulation was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory studies. Phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, gums, and reducing sugars. Acute toxicity study is carried out according to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline-423 (OECD) for 14 days. The result of acute toxicity studies (2000 mg/kg b.w.) showed no alteration in the general behavior of animals and showed no mortality and found to be safe. Based on the acute toxicity study, two doses were fixed to be 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg b.w. and used for further studies. Anti-inflammatory study of ethanolic extract was investigated at doses 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg b.w. by using carrageenan-induced paw edema in vivo screening method. Oral administration of ethanolic extract produced significant (P<0.01) decrease in paw edema volume induced by carrageenan. The present study highlighted the anti-inflammatory activity and demonstrated that Pitta sura kudineer has significant anti-inflammatory activity, and also it justifies the traditional use of this formulation in the treatment of various types of pain and inflammation.
Keywords: Pitta sura kudineer, phytochemical screening, acute toxicity, carrageenan and anti-inflammatory activity
http://iajpr.com/index.php/en/faq/32-uncategorised/104-27balachandarabstract,
Abstract
Preliminary phytochemical screening, acute toxicity study and anti-inflammatory activity of Pitta sura kudineer
S. Balachandar*1, R. Nandini1, V. Rajalakshimi1, J. Esther Jayasheela1, P. Sathiyarajeswaran2
1Institute of Pharmacology, Madras Medical College, Chennai, TN, India
2Central Research Institute for Siddha, Chennai, TN, India
Abstract
The ethanolic extract of the aerial parts and roots of Pitta sura kudineer formulation was subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening, acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory studies. Phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, steroids, gums, and reducing sugars. Acute toxicity study is carried out according to Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline-423 (OECD) for 14 days. The result of acute toxicity studies (2000 mg/kg b.w.) showed no alteration in the general behavior of animals and showed no mortality and found to be safe. Based on the acute toxicity study, two doses were fixed to be 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg b.w. and used for further studies. Anti-inflammatory study of ethanolic extract was investigated at doses 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg b.w. by using carrageenan-induced paw edema in vivo screening method. Oral administration of ethanolic extract produced significant (P<0.01) decrease in paw edema volume induced by carrageenan. The present study highlighted the anti-inflammatory activity and demonstrated that Pitta sura kudineer has significant anti-inflammatory activity, and also it justifies the traditional use of this formulation in the treatment of various types of pain and inflammation.
Keywords: Pitta sura kudineer, phytochemical screening, acute toxicity, carrageenan and anti-inflammatory activity
Friday, July 1, 2011
Child care in siddha- An overview
Sathiya rajeswaran.P1, Kiruthiga.G2. , Patturayan.R3& Anandan.T4.
Siddha system, being the oldest traditional ways of maintaining a healthy life style is still prevalent and emphasizes the importance of physical, emotional, psychological, social well being. Siddha system describes about cycles of birth, death and the need to maintain one’s harmony within which has been later described as motcham or Eternal Bliss.
Healthy seeds yield healthy Generation. Pediatrics being one of the fine focus of Siddhars, they saw the perspective of a healthy seed for an entire life within the child hence meticulously brought out steps to nurture it right from the beginning.
An ancient epic brings out how the children were seen as demy-gods rather than off-springs. There were ceremonies that marked for
1. Birth (Information of Birth and registering in Community)
2. Introduction of Seinei/Urai marunthu by Maternal uncle to Develop Immunity (Sei Nei- consisting of juice of 54 herbs mixed with ricinolic oil administered in drops right from first day of birth. This is referred to as senai vaithal. Urai mathirai- prepared from herbs that are rich in polyphenolic compounds and tannins.)
3. Naming (Authenticating Gene Carriers with surname )
4. Ear-Boring (First Injury to develop Innate Immunity)
5. First solid feeding – Rice Introduction (To Introduce Macro and Micro nutrients)
6. Induction of Knowledge (To develop Cognitive parameters)
Which were celebrated in order to develop Natural immunity, social maturity, emotional bonding, and Social security
Siddha system has classified pediatric illnesses as
1. Agakaarana noigal-due to the deeds of parents-develops congenitally
2. Purakaarana noigal-due to change in environment after birth-is acquired
Detailed description has been given on
Thodam: Thodam speaks about diseases caused due to Improper handling which means infections caused due to external factors such as Zoophilic, Vectors, and Human interventions. Treatment guidelines ranges from tying of Wrist bands made of herbs (Roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra, Acorus calamus) , Fumigations by herbs and resins(Benzoin)and Internal Medications. Ethno practices such as tying ropes from Mosques, Temples and using certain signatures (As in Reiki), chanting Mantras, Tying certain roots as necklaces are the practices documented 3- 4 decades ago. Even though all these claims are roofed under unscientific and unsafe practices still people try these along with proper medication as most of these practices are twined with religious aspects and scientific claims occupy a back seat in accordance with a child’s health. Almost all the thodam have dysentery and Diarrhoea as a common symptoms thodam may be equated to dysentery and Diarrhoea (of viral origin) with dehydrating symptoms
Mantham: Mantham is a group of Gastro intestinal disturbances in which Enzymatic insufficiencies like lactose intolerance (Paal Mantham) and upto Gluten enteropathy is discussed. Mantham is a group of Digestive disorders which leads improper assimilation and Absorption .This in turn leads to Loss of Micro and Macro nutrients. Immunity and normal physiology is questioned.
Around 53 types of Mantham have been explained almost all are comparable with Gastro-intestinal disturbances that can lead to Nervous debility like Janni, valippu (Epilepsy) in children if untreated or inadequately treated leading retardation of mental and physical growth. This hypothesis of relationship between Mantham and Neurological diseases is evident from even recent theories of Gutty leak syndrome and Autism. Symptoms of Mantham vary from indigestion, regurgitation, constipation to diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, dehydration, febrile conditions and convulsions. Mantham is usually treated with pungent decoctions and drugs which will lead to a proper digestion and reduce the dominating Iyam (Kapham) and deranged Vatham.
Kanam: Kanam represents a group of respiratory illnesses which are classified into 16 types. Mantham precipitates Kanam. As described earlier Loss of Micro and Macro nutrients Leads to Kanam. Mostly occurs from 3 to 7 years of age. Symptoms ranges from soreness of tongue, cough, discoloration of tongue, fever, change in the structure of rib cage (Suggestive of PC /Rickettia rosary), Diarrhoea etc. Lipid based medicines (Ghee) are prescribed in Kanam as they are nutritive and therapeutically encounter microbes. Lipid based drugs also crosses blood brain barriers which will also diminish the neurological symptoms.
Kaamalai (Jaundice), Paandu (Anemia),Acharam(Glossitis/Apthousulcers),Kirumi(Worm Infestation), Valippu (Epilepsy), Karappan (Eczema) are some of the diseases which are given special importance in Siddha. Balavagadam Speaks of infectious diseases in general but not in depth.
Growth and development -Siddha concept:
Growth and development is an important aspect in pediatrics. It says about the motor and cognitive maturity of a child in accordance with its chronologicalage.Pillaitamil describes about the Growth and development of a children from a social spectacle .It extends upto fifth decade of Human race. It also describes the development of both the genders by the way of their culture and social setup.
Kappu, Chenkeerai, Thalam, Sappani, Mutham, Varugai, Ambuli, Chitril, Siruparai and Siru thaer are the paruvangal mentioned for a male child.
Kappu, Chenkeerai, Thalam, Sappani, Mutham, Varugai, Ambuli, Ammanai, Neeradal, and Oosal are the paruvangal mentioned for a female child.
Each and every paruvam is mentioned by the motor activity of a child in response with its chronological age. Kappu and Chenkeerai describe about care of the child and cognitive development at this stage is very little.
Thaalam is a word Meaning tongue. In this age the child makes a lot of sound with tongue and protrudes the tongue on command. Sappani is clapping of Hands by a child on command .Mutham describes about dispersal of flying kiss by a child on command. Varugai says about Movement of a child towards a person on command.chitril says about construction of Sand house by a child. Siruparai explains about usage of small musical drums by a male child and Siru thaer describes about Pulling of a small cart by children.
Ammanai, neeradal and Oosal are a game of a female child.Allthe above said paruvangal explains about Motor/Cognitive Development of A child in accordance with its chronological age.
Reproductive and Child health care in Siddha
Mother and child care even though is primitive still holds a lot of importance as it Focuses on a healthy nation. Rural population is still vulnerable in mother and child care.
Unhygienic environments, Poor Ante natal follow-ups, Malnutrition including Iron deficiency, improper child care and lack of frequent health supervisions take them under vulnerable population. The national projects if addressed properly will reduce the burden faced by the Rural as well as semi urban population which occupies the major population in India.
Ante natal care
The death rate of Indians during Natal period is still a worrying number in under developed states. Siddhars have mentioned proper life style measure to pregnant women
and ante natal care drugs in each and every month. If these drugs are regularly taken along with the herbal based Iron supplements and Folic acid and proper life style if adopted knifeless painless delivery will be possible.
Post natal care
Post natal care deals with effective Lochia removal, Bringing back uterus to its normal shape and size, toning the physiological functions of the delivered mother and enhancing breast milk secretion. Health foods and drug prescriptions like Sowbhagyachunti holds a lot of Medical benefit in post natal area
Breast feeding
Character of Breast milk is highlighted in Gunapaadam –Jeeva vaguppu (Siddha materia medica-Animal kingdom). They have also discussed about substitutions for breast milk. Donkey’s milk is recommended by Siddhars which is further substantiated in scientific studies. Siddhars have also mentioned a fund of Galactogogues which enhances milk secretion.
Weaning
Weaning foods are recommended from Fourth month and lot of prescriptions have been mentioned in Bala vagadam.Folk lore knowledge in Pediatrics add up usage of Kokkattan in the sixth to seven months to satisfy the dentition itch of the children.
Pharmaceutics in Siddha pediatrics:
1. Herbal drugs occupy a larger space (90%).Very less usage of Mineral drugs.
2. Most of The medicines are administered in Breast milk up to 1 yr.
3. Honey is completely avoided up to 1 yr.
4. Medicines for Dysentery and Diarrhoea are safe and will not precipitate Gastritis.
5. Anti emetics are safe and they do not precipitate extra pyramidal symptoms.
Common Pediatric prescriptions for child health care
1. Urai mathirai Immune booster
2. Korochani mathirai Effective in Combating fever
3. Bala sanjeevi mathirai Effective in Combating URTI/LRTI
4. Bhavana kadukkai Effective in Anaemia
5. Vasambu karukku Effective in Dysentry,Diarrhoea
6. Sangu Parpam tablet Tonsilitis, Gastritis,Resp.Infections
7. Vallarai tablet Calms ADHD and Sharpens Memory
8. Anmaiodu parpam Dysentry,Diarrhoea and in Lactose intolerance
9. Asta chooranam Increases appetite
10. Thetran kottai lehyam Tonic for children
11. Vallarai nei Kanam
12. Chundai vatral chooranam Effective Anthelminthic
Sathiya rajeswaran.P1, Kiruthiga.G2. , Patturayan.R3& Anandan.T4.
Siddha system, being the oldest traditional ways of maintaining a healthy life style is still prevalent and emphasizes the importance of physical, emotional, psychological, social well being. Siddha system describes about cycles of birth, death and the need to maintain one’s harmony within which has been later described as motcham or Eternal Bliss.
Healthy seeds yield healthy Generation. Pediatrics being one of the fine focus of Siddhars, they saw the perspective of a healthy seed for an entire life within the child hence meticulously brought out steps to nurture it right from the beginning.
An ancient epic brings out how the children were seen as demy-gods rather than off-springs. There were ceremonies that marked for
1. Birth (Information of Birth and registering in Community)
2. Introduction of Seinei/Urai marunthu by Maternal uncle to Develop Immunity (Sei Nei- consisting of juice of 54 herbs mixed with ricinolic oil administered in drops right from first day of birth. This is referred to as senai vaithal. Urai mathirai- prepared from herbs that are rich in polyphenolic compounds and tannins.)
3. Naming (Authenticating Gene Carriers with surname )
4. Ear-Boring (First Injury to develop Innate Immunity)
5. First solid feeding – Rice Introduction (To Introduce Macro and Micro nutrients)
6. Induction of Knowledge (To develop Cognitive parameters)
Which were celebrated in order to develop Natural immunity, social maturity, emotional bonding, and Social security
Siddha system has classified pediatric illnesses as
1. Agakaarana noigal-due to the deeds of parents-develops congenitally
2. Purakaarana noigal-due to change in environment after birth-is acquired
Detailed description has been given on
Thodam: Thodam speaks about diseases caused due to Improper handling which means infections caused due to external factors such as Zoophilic, Vectors, and Human interventions. Treatment guidelines ranges from tying of Wrist bands made of herbs (Roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra, Acorus calamus) , Fumigations by herbs and resins(Benzoin)and Internal Medications. Ethno practices such as tying ropes from Mosques, Temples and using certain signatures (As in Reiki), chanting Mantras, Tying certain roots as necklaces are the practices documented 3- 4 decades ago. Even though all these claims are roofed under unscientific and unsafe practices still people try these along with proper medication as most of these practices are twined with religious aspects and scientific claims occupy a back seat in accordance with a child’s health. Almost all the thodam have dysentery and Diarrhoea as a common symptoms thodam may be equated to dysentery and Diarrhoea (of viral origin) with dehydrating symptoms
Mantham: Mantham is a group of Gastro intestinal disturbances in which Enzymatic insufficiencies like lactose intolerance (Paal Mantham) and upto Gluten enteropathy is discussed. Mantham is a group of Digestive disorders which leads improper assimilation and Absorption .This in turn leads to Loss of Micro and Macro nutrients. Immunity and normal physiology is questioned.
Around 53 types of Mantham have been explained almost all are comparable with Gastro-intestinal disturbances that can lead to Nervous debility like Janni, valippu (Epilepsy) in children if untreated or inadequately treated leading retardation of mental and physical growth. This hypothesis of relationship between Mantham and Neurological diseases is evident from even recent theories of Gutty leak syndrome and Autism. Symptoms of Mantham vary from indigestion, regurgitation, constipation to diarrhea, vomiting, anorexia, dehydration, febrile conditions and convulsions. Mantham is usually treated with pungent decoctions and drugs which will lead to a proper digestion and reduce the dominating Iyam (Kapham) and deranged Vatham.
Kanam: Kanam represents a group of respiratory illnesses which are classified into 16 types. Mantham precipitates Kanam. As described earlier Loss of Micro and Macro nutrients Leads to Kanam. Mostly occurs from 3 to 7 years of age. Symptoms ranges from soreness of tongue, cough, discoloration of tongue, fever, change in the structure of rib cage (Suggestive of PC /Rickettia rosary), Diarrhoea etc. Lipid based medicines (Ghee) are prescribed in Kanam as they are nutritive and therapeutically encounter microbes. Lipid based drugs also crosses blood brain barriers which will also diminish the neurological symptoms.
Kaamalai (Jaundice), Paandu (Anemia),Acharam(Glossitis/Apthousulcers),Kirumi(Worm Infestation), Valippu (Epilepsy), Karappan (Eczema) are some of the diseases which are given special importance in Siddha. Balavagadam Speaks of infectious diseases in general but not in depth.
Growth and development -Siddha concept:
Growth and development is an important aspect in pediatrics. It says about the motor and cognitive maturity of a child in accordance with its chronologicalage.Pillaitamil describes about the Growth and development of a children from a social spectacle .It extends upto fifth decade of Human race. It also describes the development of both the genders by the way of their culture and social setup.
Kappu, Chenkeerai, Thalam, Sappani, Mutham, Varugai, Ambuli, Chitril, Siruparai and Siru thaer are the paruvangal mentioned for a male child.
Kappu, Chenkeerai, Thalam, Sappani, Mutham, Varugai, Ambuli, Ammanai, Neeradal, and Oosal are the paruvangal mentioned for a female child.
Each and every paruvam is mentioned by the motor activity of a child in response with its chronological age. Kappu and Chenkeerai describe about care of the child and cognitive development at this stage is very little.
Thaalam is a word Meaning tongue. In this age the child makes a lot of sound with tongue and protrudes the tongue on command. Sappani is clapping of Hands by a child on command .Mutham describes about dispersal of flying kiss by a child on command. Varugai says about Movement of a child towards a person on command.chitril says about construction of Sand house by a child. Siruparai explains about usage of small musical drums by a male child and Siru thaer describes about Pulling of a small cart by children.
Ammanai, neeradal and Oosal are a game of a female child.Allthe above said paruvangal explains about Motor/Cognitive Development of A child in accordance with its chronological age.
Reproductive and Child health care in Siddha
Mother and child care even though is primitive still holds a lot of importance as it Focuses on a healthy nation. Rural population is still vulnerable in mother and child care.
Unhygienic environments, Poor Ante natal follow-ups, Malnutrition including Iron deficiency, improper child care and lack of frequent health supervisions take them under vulnerable population. The national projects if addressed properly will reduce the burden faced by the Rural as well as semi urban population which occupies the major population in India.
Ante natal care
The death rate of Indians during Natal period is still a worrying number in under developed states. Siddhars have mentioned proper life style measure to pregnant women
and ante natal care drugs in each and every month. If these drugs are regularly taken along with the herbal based Iron supplements and Folic acid and proper life style if adopted knifeless painless delivery will be possible.
Post natal care
Post natal care deals with effective Lochia removal, Bringing back uterus to its normal shape and size, toning the physiological functions of the delivered mother and enhancing breast milk secretion. Health foods and drug prescriptions like Sowbhagyachunti holds a lot of Medical benefit in post natal area
Breast feeding
Character of Breast milk is highlighted in Gunapaadam –Jeeva vaguppu (Siddha materia medica-Animal kingdom). They have also discussed about substitutions for breast milk. Donkey’s milk is recommended by Siddhars which is further substantiated in scientific studies. Siddhars have also mentioned a fund of Galactogogues which enhances milk secretion.
Weaning
Weaning foods are recommended from Fourth month and lot of prescriptions have been mentioned in Bala vagadam.Folk lore knowledge in Pediatrics add up usage of Kokkattan in the sixth to seven months to satisfy the dentition itch of the children.
Pharmaceutics in Siddha pediatrics:
1. Herbal drugs occupy a larger space (90%).Very less usage of Mineral drugs.
2. Most of The medicines are administered in Breast milk up to 1 yr.
3. Honey is completely avoided up to 1 yr.
4. Medicines for Dysentery and Diarrhoea are safe and will not precipitate Gastritis.
5. Anti emetics are safe and they do not precipitate extra pyramidal symptoms.
Common Pediatric prescriptions for child health care
1. Urai mathirai Immune booster
2. Korochani mathirai Effective in Combating fever
3. Bala sanjeevi mathirai Effective in Combating URTI/LRTI
4. Bhavana kadukkai Effective in Anaemia
5. Vasambu karukku Effective in Dysentry,Diarrhoea
6. Sangu Parpam tablet Tonsilitis, Gastritis,Resp.Infections
7. Vallarai tablet Calms ADHD and Sharpens Memory
8. Anmaiodu parpam Dysentry,Diarrhoea and in Lactose intolerance
9. Asta chooranam Increases appetite
10. Thetran kottai lehyam Tonic for children
11. Vallarai nei Kanam
12. Chundai vatral chooranam Effective Anthelminthic
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