Natural Products Chemistry and Pharmacognosy Commons^™

Development Of Micellar Sprays Containing Rhinacanthus Nasutus Extract For Dandruff Management, Suwipa Ungphaiboon Associate Professor, Sutasinee Ardhanwanich, Ketsuda Wongsuwan, Salwa Yanya, Nattanit Aekwattanaphol

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Dandruff is a common scalp disorder associated with altered sebum secretion and microbial imbalance, particularly between Cutibacterium and Staphylococcus, which correlates with disease severity.
Objectives: This study aimed to develop and optimize a multifunctional leave-on hair and scalp spray with anti-dandruff, nourishing, and protective properties.
Materials and Methods: Micelles containing Rhinacanthus nasutus extract were prepared using eco-friendly methods, including film hydration and direct solubilization. The formulations were optimized and evaluated for physicochemical properties, drug release, and antibacterial activity.
Results: The optimized micellar spray (BP), prepared through direct solubilization in citrate buffer, exhibited a mean particle size of 192.45 …

Ameliorative Effect Of Ethanolic Extract Of Nardostachys Jatamansi Against High Fat Diet Induced Dyslipidemia In Rats, Umanath Preethi, Govindaraj Sumathy, Nathiya Shanmugam

Chulalongkorn Medical Journal

ABSTRACT:

Background and objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects of ethanol extract of Nardostachys Jatamansi (N.J) in a high-fat diet-induced obesity model in male Wistar albino rats.Materials and methods:36 male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into six groups, each comprising six animals: Group I received a normal diet for 9 weeks, while Group II was fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for the same period. Groups III–VI were also given HFD throughout. From week 5, Group III received rosuvastatin (10 mg/kg), and Groups IV–VI were treated with Nardostachys Jatamansi. extract at 100, 200, and …

Microwave-Assisted Extraction Optimization And Bioactivity Assessment Of Flavonoid-Rich Extract From Lantana Camara L. Leaves In Zebrafish Epilepsy Model, Prem Kumar B R, Shwetha Krishnamurthy, Gouri Nair, Sundara Saravanan Kamatchi

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Lantana camara L. (Verbanaceae) is known for its bioactive compounds and has been reported for its potential therapeutic applications. Flavonoids from natural sources are acknowledged for their antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, suggesting a possible role in seizure management.
Objectives: This study intended to optimize the microwaveassisted extraction (MAE) of flavonoid-rich extract from L. camara L. leaves utilizing a designof- experiment approach and evaluate its antiepileptic property using the zebrafish model.
Materials and Methods: Four solvents (ethyl acetate, acetone, ethanol, and water) were initially used, with ethanol yielding the highest total flavonoid content (TFC). A central composite design was employed …

Samannachan: A Thai Traditional Herbal Recipe With Cytotoxic Potential Against Breast, Cervical, And Ovarian Cancers, Perika Monkanna, Srisopa Ruangnoo, Pakakrong Thongdeeying, Arunporn Itharat, Pranporn Kuropakornpong, Reawfang Sriyom, Apinya Wiboonwattanakit, Kanyarat Namphonsan, Paponpachara Pibanpaknitee, Neal M. Davies

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Samannachan (SMC) is a Thai traditional herbal recipe that has been used since 2005 at Khampramong Temple, Sakon Nakhon, to treat more than 6,000 cancer patients. However, scientific evidence supporting cytotoxic effects remains limited.
Objectives: The objective of the study is to evaluate the cytotoxicity of the SMC recipe and its ten herbal components against breast, cervical, and ovarian cancer cells compared to normal cells.
Methods: Cytotoxic activity was assessed using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay on breast (MCF-7, T47D, MDA-MB-231), cervical (HeLa), and ovarian (SK-OV-3) cancer cell lines, as well as on non-cancerous human keratinocytes (HaCaT). Both aqueous …

Pharmacognostic Analysis And Thin-Layer Chromatographic Study Of The Thai Antipyretic Herbal Formula Khiao-Bencha-Khan, Sirinapa Chaisri, Tassanee Paraput, Pravit Akarasereenont, Pinpat Tripatara

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Khiao-bencha-khan formula (KBF) is an herbal formula recorded in Thai scriptures and used to treat fever, including exanthematous fever, and aphthous ulcers. It consists of Limnophila rugosa (Roth) Merr., Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Gossypium arboreum L., Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth., Eupatorium japonicum L., and Justicia gendarussa Burm.f.
Objectives: This study aimed to identify the pharmacognostic and chemical profiles of the herbal components found in KBF.
Methods: All authentic plant materials were collected, and samples were prepared under Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme/good manufacturing practice guidelines. The materials were identified using macroscopic, microscopic, and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) methods.
Results: Microscopic analysis …

Medicines Security And Bioprospecting: A Future Agenda For Pharmaceutical Research, Geoffrey A. Cordell

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Humanity is at an extraordinary moment in history, where our interwoven future in Gaia depends on showing reverence for the modulation of our resource limits after significant losses of biodiversity and encroaching environmental change, including disappearing glaciers, rising sea levels, and changing climates. Engaging with the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and integrating sustainability and optimization of the valuable, renewable resources for future generations are essential beginning actions. Fostering economic and resource sustainability deepens the focus for contemporary research priorities toward assuring access to biological agents needed by the consumer/patient. Based on the outcomes of the COP28/29/30 and COP15/16 …

Exploring Phytoconstituents For Parkinson’S Disease: Insights From Network Pharmacology, Molecular Modeling And In Vivo Investigations, Shiva Priya, Divakar Selvaraj, Rashi Jain, Kavyashree G. S., Soumya V., Venkatesh Gunasekaran, Ramu G., Saravanan Jayaram

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: The network pharmacology approach is used to identify novel therapeutic agents that target multiple disease targets through analysis of complex disease networks by integrating systems biology and computational approaches. Objectives: The present study aims to identify the principal targets implicated in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and major phytoconstituents that could potentially modulate the major targets to achieve therapeutic benefits in PD through a network pharmacology-based approach. Materials and Methods: The DisGeNET database was used to select the major targets involved in the pathogenesis of PD. The most important targets among the selected proteins were …

Isolation And Antibacterial Evaluation Of Bioactive Compounds From Mussaenda Philippica A.Rich.: A Bioassay-Guided Approach, M. Rifqi Efendi, Mesa Sukmadani Rusdi, Muhammad Iqbal, Ilham Padavi, Sri Indah Pirmawati, Deddi Prima Putra

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Mussaenda philippica A.Rich. (commonly known as Nusa Indah in Indonesia), a member of the Rubiaceae family, has been traditionally used throughout Southern Asia to treat various ailments, including bacterial infections, inflammation, ulcers, and liver disorders. These medicinal uses are particularly associated with its bark, leaves, sepals, and root. Objectives: This study aimed to isolate and identify bioactive compounds from M. philippica white modified sepals using a bioassay-guided approach and evaluate their antibacterial activity.
Materials and Methods: The study consisted of four main stages: (i) methanol extraction and liquid–liquid partitioning of M. philippica sepals; …

Morphological And Biological Properties Of Platelet Rich Fibrin Membrane Producing From Different Centrifugation Protocols, Vannarut Satitpitakul Md, Sarisa Tangkhunchaisaeng

Chulalongkorn Medical Journal

Background: Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membranes represent a promising tool for corneal epithelial disease treatment, though a standardized protocol remains unestablished. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the morphological and biological properties of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) membranes producing from different centrifugation protocols Methods: Four distinct low speed centrifugation protocols (100g/5min, 200g/5min, 100g/10min, and 200g/10min) were established for PRF production from 3 healthy volunteers. We assessed fibrin and membrane dimensions, white blood cell and platelet concentrations, kinetic release of growth factors (TGF-, PDGF-BB, VEGF, IGF-1), and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1, TNF-). In vitro degradation and bacterial contamination were also examined. Results: All …

Screening And Evaluation Of Thai Herbal Plants As Multifunctional Agents For Targeting Amyloid Β Pathogenesis In Alzheimer's Disease, Ruedeemars Yubolphan, Suchinda Malaivijitnond, Sukanya Jaroenporn

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder driven by complex pathophysiological processes. Current therapeutic strategies emphasize the development of multifunctional agents, particularly those derived from natural sources, to target multiple stages of the amyloid β (Aβ) cascade, a central contributor to AD pathology.

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the anti-Aβ activity of nine Thai herbs and evaluate their potential as multifunctional agents for AD treatment.

Methods: Nine Thai herbs—Caesalpinia sappan (CS), Thunbergia laurifolia (TL), Rhinacanthus nasutus (RN), Tabernaemontana divaricata (TD), Cyperus rotundus (CR), Terminalia chebula (TC), Azadirachta indica (AI), Piper retrofractum (PR), and Asparagus racemosus (AR)—were screened …

Dual Role Of Triphala Extracts In Breast Cancer Therapy: Enhanced Paclitaxel Cytotoxicity By Ethanolic Extract And Cytoprotection By Aqueous Extract, Supamas Charucharana, Poonlarp Cheepsunthorn Ph.D., Chalisa L. Cheepsunthorn Ph.D.

Chulalongkorn Medical Journal

Background: Combining antioxidants with chemotherapy is an emerging strategy to reduce chemotoxicity in normal cells. Triphala (TPL), a polyphenol-rich Thai herbal formulation, has shown promise in enhancing chemotherapy efficacy, but its interaction with paclitaxel (PX) in breast cancer treatment remains underexplored.

Objective: This study evaluates the effects of aqueous (TPL-w) and ethanolic (TPL-a) TPL extracts combined with low-dose PX on breast cancer cells and non-tumorigenic mammary epithelial cells.

Methods: The bioactive components of TPL-w and TPL-a were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and chloromethyl 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (CM-H₂DCFDA) assays assessed cell viability and …

Evaluation Of Antimicrobial And Wound Healing Activities Of Jatropha Podagrica Extracts, Reawfang Sriyom, Arunporn Itharat, Onmanee Prajuabjinda, Sumalee Panthong, Pakakrong Thongdeeying, Metar Siriwattanasathorn, Maneewan Panthong, Neal M. Davies

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Jatropha podagrica has been traditionally used to treat skin infections and promote wound healing. However, there is currently no scientific research validating its antimicrobial or wound-healing properties.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and wound-healing activities of various extracts from all parts of J. podagrica, using different solvents. In addition, the chemical composition of the most effective extract was analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).

Materials and Methods: The leaves, stem, and root of J. podagrica were extracted using hexane, 95% ethanol, ethanol-soluble hexane residue, and aqueous decoction. The antimicrobial effects of the extracts were assessed …

The Antioxidant And Antiaging Activity Of Fig (Ficus Carica Linn) Leaf Ethanolic Extract In Vitro, Aji Winanta, Novita Zulaekhah, Perdana Priya Haresmita, Annisa Krisridwany, Rifki Febriansah, Inka Aprissa

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Human organ systems can experience the aging process, one of which is the aging of the skin, characterized by dry, rough, or scaly skin, dullness, dark spots, and wrinkles. Previous studies have found that fig leaves contain compounds that have the potential to be anti-aging.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the potential of fig leaves (Ficus carica Linn) as an anti-aging agent by examining their antioxidant activity, elastase inhibition, and antioxidative stress activity against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). Materials and Methods: The phytochemicals in fig leaf ethanol extract were identified using phytochemical screening tests, …

Antioxidant And Chemotherapeutic Synergy: Triphala Enhances Doxorubicin Cytotoxicity In Breast Cancer Cells And Reduces Toxicity In Non-Tumorigenic Cells, Supamas Charucharana, Poonlarp Cheepsunthorn Ph.D., Chalisa Louicharoen Cheepsunthorn Ph.D.

Chulalongkorn Medical Journal

Background: The combining of antioxidants with chemotherapy is increasingly explored to minimize toxicity in non-cancerous cells during breast cancer treatment. Triphala (TPL), a Thai herbal compound rich in antioxidants, shows potential as a complementary candidate for breast cancer chemotherapy.

Objective: This study investigated the combined effects of TPL and low-dose doxorubicin (DOX) on human breast cancer and non-tumorigenic mammary epithelial cells.

Methods: TPL’s bioactive compounds were analyzed via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cell viability and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were assessed in breast cancer (MDA-MB-231, MCF-7) and epithelial (MCF-10A) cells using thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and chloromethyl 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein …

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 …

Beyond Mitragynine: Composition Survey And Stability Assessment Of Kratom Tea Ordered Via Food Delivery Platforms In Bangkok, Thailand, Yuta Tokuda, Apinya Tubtimrattana, Nat Tansrisawad, Kornvalee Meesilpavikkai, Parath Thirati

Chulalongkorn Medical Journal

Background: Kratom is a native tree to Southeast Asia. Kratom leaves have long been used medicinally and recreationally due to their stimulative and opioid-like effects attributed to high endogenous levels of mitragynine and related alkaloids. Kratom is widely consumed as tea and is now publicly sold, including on food delivery platforms, after recent decriminalization despite selling of kratom products being still considered illegal by other acts.

Objectives: To assess the formulas of kratom teas sold on Thai food delivery platform together with their consistency and the stability of refrigerated teas.

Methods: Kratom alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, and additive contents of …

Effects Of Topical Application Of Combined Phyllanthus Emblica Linn. And Simvastatin On Diabetic Wound In Mice, Tingting Liao

Chulalongkorn University Theses and Dissertations (Chula ETD)

Non-healing diabetic foot ulcers are the most common cause of lower extremity amputation. Drug combination treatment is the most recent emerging strategy in local treatment of diabetic wound. This study aimed to find out the combined effects and underlying mechanisms of combined Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (PE) and simvastatin (SIM) on diabetic wound in mice. Male BALB/C mice were divided into five groups: control group (CON+Vehicle), diabetic wounded group (DM+Vehicle, streptozotocin 45 mg/kg. i.p. daily for 5 days), diabetic wounded groups with daily treatment of 100%PE cream, 5%SIM cream, and 100%PE+5%SIM combined cream, w/v, for 4 days, 7 days and 14 …

Phytochemical Screening, In Vitro Antimalarial Activity And Genetic Diversity Of Selected Asteraceae Medicinal Plants Indigenous To Thailand, Desy Liana

Chulalongkorn University Theses and Dissertations (Chula ETD)

The emergence of artemisinin resistance leaded the effort to find the new antimalarial drug or artemisinin activity booster. Due to the chance that secondary metabolites can be evolutionary conserved, combining phylogeny with ethnobotanical data for screening antimalarial activity may be helpful to predict bioactivity and minimize the expenditure and time for laboratory research. The aimed of this study is screening the antimalarial activity, phytochemicals and genetic diversity of selected Asteraceae medicinal plants generated by combinatorial phylogeny and ethnobotanical data. 733 medicinal plants were obtained from literature search however only 340 taxa were met the inclusion and exclusion criteria hence these …

Pharmacognostic Specification And Rotenone Content In Derris Elliptica Stems, Macroscopic, Microscopic And Molecular Identification Of Selected Derris Species In Thailand, Krittapat Phairoh

Chulalongkorn University Theses and Dissertations (Chula ETD)

The genus Derris belonging to Fabaceae family are distributed along the equatorial zone in Africa and Asia. In Thailand, 16 species of Derris species can be found throughout the country. Derris elliptica (Hanglai-Dang), is well-known among fishermen and gardeners as fish poison and insecticide, especially the stem and root which contain isoflavonoid compound named rotenone. This study established the pharmacognostic specification of Derris elliptica dried stem crude drug and developed the quantitative analysis of rotenone content in D. elliptica stem using TLC-densitometry and image analysis. The physico-chemical parameters of D. elliptica stem included total ash, acid-insoluble ash, loss on drying …