Alternative and Complementary Medicine Commons^™

Green Design Of Plant Based Pharmaceutical Drugs: Example Of A Wound Healing Topical Cream With Plectranthus Bojeri (Benth) Hedge Lamiaceae Extract, Helga Rim Farasoa, Marie Louise Razafindravao, Rojo Fanambinantsoa Andriamiarantsoa, Gerard Cecilien Raboanary, Jean Marie Razafindrakoto, Voahangy Ramanandraibe Vestalys

Journal of Bioresource Management

To ensure the perennity of natural resources, the valorisation process of herbal pharmaceuticals must be assessed for sustainability from the very beginning of its design. No specific tools have been developed for this particular field so far. We demonstrate in this study that existing green design tools can be adapted to evaluate plant-based products manufacturing process. As the example of a topical cream using Plectranthus bojeri (Benth) Hedge LAMIACEAE extract was considered, we first confirmed the traditional use of this plant for wound healing. It acts by accelerating the re-epithelialisation phase. Using the Vermeer Cosmolife version 0.24 software tool the …

Harnessing Natural Medicine As A Resource For Socioeconomic Development, Eneojo Ogu, Martins Emeje, Munira Abdullahi

Journal of Bioresource Management

Natural medicine is currently gaining global acceptance among the developed and developing countries of the world due to its low toxicity, high efficacy and cost effectiveness. Developed countries are devising medicinal systems that require the use of medicinal plant products and resources. Thus, a marked increase in world demand for medicinal plant resources has emerged in the recent years and that has provided a great opportunity for medicinal plants exporting nations to expand their economy shares in this sector. Despite the Nigeria immense socio-economic promise, the country is in critical need following the fact that the multidimensional poverty rate is …

The Effect Of Annona Muricata Leaves’ Extract On Wnt Signaling Pathway In Induced Colorectal Cancer In Mice, Layane Massri, Jamilah Borjac, Alaa Matar, Dania Natour

BAU Journal - Science and Technology

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant global health issue. The Wnt signaling pathway, activated by mutations in APC and β-catenin genes, plays a crucial role in CRC development, leading to the activation of inflammatory pathways involving COX-2 and iNOS, as well as the continuous transcription of cell cycle-related genes promoting CRC pathogenesis. Annona muricata (A. muricata), a tropical tree with various biological activities, including anti-cancerous properties, was investigated for its potential effect on mice induced with colon cancer using 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH, 20 mg/kg) over 12 weeks, and treated with oral A. muricata extract (100 mg/kg, 5 days/week).

Methods: Histopathological …

Total Polyphenol Content, Antioxidant Potential, Antibacterial And Antifungal Properties Of Ferula L. Species Growing In Tajikistan, Saidbeg Satorov, Sulkhya Mavlonazarova, Salomuddin Yusufi, Vyacheslav Dushenkov

Publications and Research

The plants of the genus Ferula L. have long been recognized for their significant roles in traditional medicine in the Middle East and Asia, a heritage that we deeply respect and appreciate. A diverse array of biologically active compounds, particularly concentrated in the roots of various Ferula species, accounts for their broad range of medicinal properties and applications in folk medicine. Many species within this genus are noted for their high content of phenolic compounds, which exhibit potent antioxidant activity and demonstrate substantial antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The Effects Of Propofol On Doppler Echocardiographic Values Of The Aorta, Main Pulmonary Artery, And Mitral E Wave In New Zealand White Rabbits, Mehmet Alper Çetinkaya, Mahir Kaya

The Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of propofol on acceleration time (AT), ejection time (ET), AT / ET ratio obtained from the aorta (Ao) and main pulmonary artery (MPA) and Doppler echocardiographic values of mitral E wave (E) in New Zealand white rabbits. Echocardiographic evaluation was performed in 40 conscious rabbits and repeated after propofol administration. The baseline mean values were 0.028±0.006 second (s) for Ao-AT, 0.116±0.017 s for Ao-ET, 0.24±0.036 for Ao-AT / ET, 0.05±0.01 s for MPA- AT, 0.137±0.018 s for MPA-ET, 0.38±0.037 s for MPA-AT/ET, 84.13±18.26 cm/s for E peak velocity, 3.06±1.38 mmHg …

When Little Beings Are Celebrated With Gentle, Healing Hands: The Role Of Homoeopathy In Shaping A Healthier Generation, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Editorial

Homoeopathy In The Treatment Of Tinea Cruris And Tinea Corporis – A Case Series, Renu Mittal, Akshaya Kumar Prusty, Ashish Shivadikar, Divya Taneja, Noopur Kumari, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Dermatophytosis is a fungal infection affecting keratinised tissues such as the epidermis, hairs and nails. It is particularly prevalent in tropical regions due to favourable conditions for fungal growth, such as warmth and humidity. Dermatophytes metabolise keratin leading to various pathological clinical presentations, such as tinea pedis, tinea corporis and tinea cruris. Case reports, case series and studies published on treatment of tinea corporis add to the evidence-based effectiveness of Homoeopathy in treatment of the condition.

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of individualised homoeopathic medicines in the clinical management of cases presented …

Lateral Venous Ulcer Treated With Homoeopathy Using A Miasmatic Approach – A Case Report, Karunakara Moorthi, Reshma P

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Loss of all or a portion of the dermis, as well as the epidermis, causes an open sore known as an ulcer. Venous leg ulcers are late signs of venous hypertension and chronic venous insufficiency. Long-term ulcers are difficult to heal and lastly opted for skin grafting and surgery conventionally. This case report provides insight into the treatment of venous ulcer with homoeopathy using the miasmatic approach and helps to provide evidence for further research in this area.

Case Summary: A 61-year-old female presented with ulceration near the lateral malleolus of her left leg for the past 6 years. …

Acknowledgement To Our Reviewers (2024), Ijrh Editorial Board

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

The following experts are sincerely acknowledged for their invaluable inputs, while reviewing the manuscripts for the Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy in 2024. Their timely inputs enabled a fair and rigorous peer-review process, and we are immensely thankful for the same.

Role Of Homoeopathic Medicine In The Management Of Psoriasis – An Evidence-Based Case Report, Priya Bablesh Chaurasiya, Priya Gauri A. Chaphekar, Sailee V. Ingale

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Psoriasis is a common chronic, recurrent, immune-mediated disease, where plaque-type psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis show 90 % and 7% prevalence, respectively. It is a cosmetically expressed condition that impacts the individual and the family, thus affecting quality of life. It impacts the physical, emotional and psychosocial well-being of the sick individual. It accounts for up to 3% of the World’s population. Although this condition is not life-threatening, it is challenging to treat due to the lack of established causative factors. Conventional medicine offers long-term treatment with a short-term benefit to patients with psoriasis, resulting in discontinued treatment by the …

An In Vitro Comparative Assessment Of Antidiabetic Efficacy: Abroma Augusta Q, Gymnema Sylvestre Q, Cephalandra Indica Q, Momordica Charantia Q, Syzygium Jambolanum Q In Comparison To Metformin, Mary Adharshna S.P., Vettrivel Arul

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Homoeopathic mother tinctures are gaining attention for managing diabetes by inhibiting key enzymes in glucose metabolism.

Objective: This study aimed to compare popular homoeopathic mother tinctures Abroma augusta Q (AAQ), Cephalandra indica Q (CIQ), Gymnema sylvestre Q (GSQ), Momordica charantia Q (MCQ) and Syzygium jambolanum Q (SJQ) with Metformin (MET) in inhibiting diabetes associated α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes.

Methods: Mother tinctures AAQ, CIQ, GSQ, MCQ, SJQ and MET of concentrations 10 μL/mL, 50 μL/mL, 100 μL/mL, 250 μL/mL, and 500 μL/mL were assessed through α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitory assay.

Results: All mother tinctures show significant inhibitory action at …

Efficacy Of Ferrum Metallicum 30c In Restoring Menstrual Cycle In Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients – A Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Single-Blind Trial, J.P. Jerin, Chaturbhuja Nayak, D. Karthikeyan, Maanasa Rajagopal

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, with the prevalent clinical symptom of irregular menstruation.

Objective: This trial assessed the efficacy of Ferr. met. 30C in restoring the menstrual cycle among PCOS patients.

Methods: A randomised, placebo-controlled, single-blind trial was conducted at outpatient departments of Sri Sai Ram Homoeopathy Medical College and Research Centre, Chennai. Patients were randomly allotted to the experimental (Group I - Ferr. met. 30C) and control (Group II - Placebo) groups. Quality of life of patients in both groups was assessed through PCOS Questionnaire scale …

The Role Of Hepar Sulphuris Calcareum In A Case Of Periorbital Cellulitis – A Case Report, Rushikesh Ramesh Desai, Mahesh M. Choudhary

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Periorbital cellulitis is an infection of the soft tissues around the eye anterior to the orbital septum. This condition is very commonly found in the paediatric population but due to certain comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus or immune-compromised conditions, it can be seen in the adult population also. The condition may prove devastating to the eye, causing complete loss of vision or may become life-threatening if the infection spreads to orbits and involves cavernous sinuses in the brain.

Case Summary: A 50-year-old diabetic male patient complained of red and lustrous swelling around his right eye, sticky discharge from the …

Research Highlights, Swati Kharb, Purnima Rani

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Research Highlights

Celebrating World Homoeopathy Day With A Homoeopathic Symposium On Empowering Research, Enhancing Proficiency, Babita Rani Kondle, Divya Taneja, Renu Mittal, Subhash Kaushik

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

The Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the scientific convention ‘Empowering Research Enhancing Proficiency: A Homoeopathic Symposium’ on 10th and 11th April 2024 at Yashobhoomi (India International Convention and Expo Centre), New Delhi, India. The convention which was jointly organised by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy, National Commission for Homoeopathy and National Institute of Homoeopathy under the aegis of the Ministry of Ayush, Government of India to commemorate the 269th birth anniversary of Dr. Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann. There were a total of 17 sessions which included five panel discussions. The convention was attended by more …

Uncontrolled Hypertension Or A Bad Medication Interaction? The Importance Of Reviewing Over-The-Counter Medications During Medication Reconciliation, Shefali Amin Do, Caitlyn R. Moss Md

Transformative Medicine

Introduction: In the management of chronic conditions, review of the complete medication list for potential drug-drug interactions is crucial. This case involves a patient taking activated charcoal for unclear reasons, leading to misdiagnosed uncontrolled hypertension.

Case Description: We present the case of an elderly male with uncontrolled hypertension who had been placed on multiple chronic antihypertensives for years. On further review, he was found to be taking activated charcoal twice daily thereby inactivating his five oral antihypertensive medications and making his blood pressure difficult to control. Discontinuation of the activated charcoal led to significant improvement in his blood …

Comparing Multivalent Cross-Linked Sodium Alginate/ Montmorillonite Beads Containing Curcumin Or Cayenne Pepper As Drug Carriers And Their Antimicrobial Resistance, Shionainn Traynor, Shubham Sharma

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

The aim of the following work was to investigate and compare curcumin and cayenne pepper in microbeads composed of sodium alginate (SA) crosslinked with montmorillonite (MMT) to act as drug carriers and their antimicrobial resistance. The microbeads were prepared through ion-exchange in multivalent solutions of CaCl₂, MgCl₂ and AlCl₃. The microbeads were characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and the time required for intercalation of curcumin and cayenne pepper with MMT. Simulated intestinal fluid (pH 7.3) and gastric fluid (pH 1.2) at 37°C were used for comparison in swelling studies. …

Editorial - Sure Journal Vol 6, Anne M. Friel, Eva Campion, Sinead Loughran

SURE Journal: Science Undergraduate Research Experience Journal

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Understanding The Lived Experience Of Outdoor Camping, Marisa Snyder, Jazminne Orozco Arteaga

Fall 2024 OTD Capstone Symposium

Camping is an outdoor recreational activity that allows individuals to connect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and engage in physical activity. For aging adults, camping can be a way to improve their quality of life, fulfill their roles as grandparents and parents, and maintain independence. However, there was a lack of awareness and education about the physical, mental, and social benefits of outdoor camping, limiting the recreational exposure and experiences for the aging population. Additionally, campgrounds are typically in unpredictable environments that may require additional resources for aging adults to confidently engage in an enjoyable camping experience. …

An Overview Of Japanese Kampo: An Integrative Approach To Medicine, Olivia Yaste

Honors College Theses

There is a growing interest in the use of traditional medicine for the treatment of disease and health conditions around the world. The traditional medicine system of Japan has been in place for thousands of years and the traditional herbal system, Kampo, has been fully integrated into the modern national healthcare system. The compilation of information on topics surrounding Kampo written in English is scattered, making it difficult to gain a broad understanding of the subject without immense time and effort. This paper aims to review the existing literature on a variety of topics surrounding Kampo in order to give …

Food Security And Its Impact On Hypertension In Urban Communities, Lauren M. Nobriga

Master's Projects and Capstones

The Quality Improvement Team proposed an intervention to increase enrollment in the Food Security Program, a six-month initiative that provides vouchers redeemable for fruits and vegetables. Long-term impacts of this Program include an improved food economy and enhanced patient disease management autonomy. This project aimed to increase the percentage of eligible adult medicine clinic patients enrolled in the Food Security Program by 25%, or 11 patients per month, based on the mean enrollment for the first four months of the Program (May to August) of nine patients. The intervention was based on bi-monthly performance reports, making the goal include enrolling …

Comparison Of Efficacy Between Thai Herbal Anti-Hemorrhoid Formula And Micronized Purified Flavonoid Fraction In Patients With Internal Hemorrhoids, Darunee Rattanawongsamathakul, Varut Lohsiriwat, Suksalin Booranasubkajorn, Angkana Apichartvorakit, Pravit Akarasereenont

Journal of Health Research

Background: Hemorrhoids are a common anorectal condition. In Thai traditional medicine, the Bantaoridsidwangthawan formula (BRF) has been used to treat hemorrhoids. We aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and satisfaction of BRF versus Micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) in patients with internal hemorrhoids grades 1 and 2.

Methods: This was a single-blind, randomized control noninferiority trial. Twenty-seven participants were randomly assigned to BRF (n=13) or MPFF (n=14). The BRF group received 5 pills 3 times daily for 14 days. The MPFF group received 2 tablets 3 times daily for 4 days, and then 2 tablets 2 times daily …

The Implementation Of Ketamine-Assisted-Psychotherapy On Healthcare Workers Suffering From Workplace-Related Ptsd Due To Covid-19, Ziluolan Zou

Nursing | Student Research Posters

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, healthcare workers were exposed to a deadly disease with limited knowledge and personal protective equipment, subjected to long hours, forced to ration care due to limited critical care resources and ventilators, and isolated from their families due to fear of spreading the virus. These factors further compounded the occupational stress associated with being a healthcare worker. The literature shows that the physical, mental, and emotional challenges frontline healthcare workers faced during the COVID-19 pandemic had lasting impacts on their mental health. The prevalence of mental health illnesses, such as post-traumatic stress disorder, among …

Effectiveness Of Eucalyptus For Pain Management: An Integrative Review, Taylor Stone, Jennifer Tran

Master's Projects

This integrative review examines eucalyptus essential oil effectiveness for pain, particularly as an alternative to opioids. An extensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including Joanna Briggs Institue, Cochrane, CINAHL, PubMed, and Scopus, focusing on studies examining eucalyptus oil’s analgesic properties, along with its effectiveness when used alone or in conjunction with complementary therapies like massage and acupuncture. Analysis identified three key themes: (1) the effectiveness of eucalyptus oil in pain reduction across various acute and chronic pain conditions, (2) its role in potentially reducing reliance on pharmaceutical pain relief, and (3) its capacity to enhance the effectiveness of …

Investigation Of Healthcare Providers' Receptiveness To Aromatherapy As An Adjunctive Intervention For The Postoperative Nausea And Vomiting In Gynecological Procedures, Hannah May, Lauren Sherrill

Doctoral Projects

There is a knowledge deficit concerning healthcare providers' understanding of the use of aromatherapy as an intervention for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in clinical settings. Postoperative nausea and vomiting continues to exist despite using common pharmacological treatments to block receptors that stimulate the vomiting center (DiLustro, 2017). Postoperative nausea and vomiting leads to adverse effects that decrease patient satisfaction and prolong hospital stays. Healthcare providers need an adjunct therapy that minimizes risks and improves outcomes (Weibel et al., 2017). Through this project, provider understanding, and preferences were obtained and educational content delivered to potentially improve patient PONV outcomes. Using …

Effectiveness Of Interventions To Address Nursing Students' Mental Health: An Integrative Review, Aimee Dickson, Shelby Carter

Master's Projects

Background:

The rigors of the nursing school curriculum are associated with higher levels of stress, anxiety, and depression, resulting in unhealthy habits and ineffective coping strategies that lead to initial difficulties in the academic environment and burnout as professional nurses advance into their careers. This phenomenon further burdens the already taxed workforce, leading to ongoing turnover and compromising care. This integrative review aims to look at what coping strategies have proven most successful in fostering nursing students' well-being, leading to lifelong practices that promote strength while addressing the rigors of academia and, later, the workforce.

Methods:

The literature review search …

Nutrition Recommendations For Patients On Weight Loss Drugs, Crystal M. Duque Rdn-Ldn, Toye Jackman

Department of Nutrition Student Projects

This paper provides a comprehensive, evidence-based framework for dietitians counseling patients who are using GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, for weight management. These medications are rapidly gaining popularity for their effectiveness in supporting weight loss; however, they come with unique nutritional considerations that require tailored guidance. This review outlines key aspects of GLP-1 mechanisms of action, emphasizing how these medications alter digestive processes, specifically impacting the absorption and metabolism of essential macronutrients, including proteins and dietary fibers. The paper also highlights hydration needs to support optimal health and weight loss outcomes in patients on GLP-1 therapies. Additionally, …

Evaluating The Superiority Of Multimodal Analgesia Over Opioid-Based Analgesia In Postoperative Pain Management For Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Comprehensive Integrative Review, Janna Smith, Mahdi Mofazali, Nya-Qien Smith

Master's Projects

With total knee arthroplasty (TKA), postoperative pain management is so important for optimal recovery and patient outcomes. This integrative review evaluates the effectiveness of multimodal analgesia (MMA) compared to traditional opioid-based analgesia in reducing pain and opioid consumption post-TKA. Research shows that MMA is very effective at providing adequate pain relief, reducing side effects, and also decreasing opioid use. MMA also addresses both the specific needs of individual patients and the broader public health issue of opioid dependence. However, a significant barrier to widespread adoption is the absence of standardized protocols. This review sets forth the importance of coming up …

Nature Healing Mental Stress: What U.S. Healthcare Can Learn From Other Nations, Shannon Frank-Richter, Lindsay Gietzen

Pacific Journal of Health

The United States healthcare system lags many developed nations in healthcare access and practices, especially surrounding ecotherapy [1]. Ecotherapy is the practice of mindfulness in tandem with intentional immersion among natural spaces or with natural elements. Research from Asia, Europe and Canada indicate immense benefits from ecotherapy, or mindful nature immersion, as an effective treatment for burnout and stress. By adopting regular nature engagement, the U.S. could significantly improve mental health and reduce occupational stress. This literature review examines how nature immersion, especially with mindfulness, positively affects the brain and nervous system. Key components in nature are identified, such as …

Does The Use Of Hydrotherapy And Behavioral Therapy In Addition To Pharmaceutical Medicine Reduce Chronic Back Pain In Adults?, Srujal Amin, Payton Golden

Master's Projects

Background: Chronic back pain (CBP) is a debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide, significantly impairing physical function, reducing quality of life, and imposing substantial healthcare costs. CBP is traditionally managed with pharmacological treatments, including opioids, acetaminophen, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which are often supplemented by prescribed physical activity to alleviate pain and improve quality of life. Recently, alternative therapies such as hydrotherapy and behavioral interventions have become more popular as safe and effective approaches to improving pain management in CBP patients. This integrative review aims to provide valuable insights into pain management, supporting healthcare professionals in developing more effective holistic …