@article { author = {Bayan, Leyla and Koulivand, Peir Hossain and Gorji, Ali}, title = {Garlic: a review of potential therapeutic effects}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {1-14}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.1741}, abstract = {Throughout history, many different cultures have recognized the potential use of garlic for prevention and treatment of different diseases. Recent studies support the effects of garlic and its extracts in a wide range of applications. These studies raised the possibility of revival of garlic therapeutic values in different diseases. Different compounds in garlic are thought to reduce the risk for cardiovascular diseases, have anti-tumor and anti-microbial effects, and show benefit on high blood glucose concentration. However, the exact mechanism of all ingredients and their long-term effects are not fully understood. Further studies are needed to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms of action of garlic as well as its efficacy and safety in treatment of various diseases.  }, keywords = {Cancer,Cardiovascular diseases,Herbal Medicine,Traditional Medicine}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1741.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1741_94f68e960d35c89d5233c5de51e6db3d.pdf} } @article { author = {Zarei, Ali and Changizi Ashtiyani, Saeed and Taheri, Soheila and Rasekh, Fateme}, title = {Comparison between effects of different doses of Melissa officinalis and atorvastatin on the activity of liver enzymes in hypercholesterolemia rats}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {15-23}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.1073}, abstract = {Objectives: Liver is one of the most sensitive tissues to oxidant damage. Hence, the present study was conducted to compare the effects of Melissa officinalis (MO) extract and Atorvastatin on the activity of liver enzymes in rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 60 male Wistar rats were selected and allocated to six groups (n=10). The control group received a normal diet, sham group received a fatty diet while other groups received a fatty diet and the alcoholic extract ofMO, at minimum (25 mg/kg), moderate (50 mg/kg), and maximum (75 mg/kg) doses (i.p.). The last group received Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg) through gavage with a fatty diet over a 21-day period. At the end of this 21-day period, blood samples were drawn and the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), activity of liver enzymes as well as cholesterol in the samples were measured. Results: The obtained results showed that the activity of liver enzymes in the treatment groups receiving MO extract and the group receiving Atorvastatin decreased significantly. MOextract reduced the level of liver enzymes. Conclusion: Therefore, further studies for obtaining a better understanding of the mechanism of effect of MO for treating liver diseases are recommended.}, keywords = {Atorvastatin,Hypercholesterolemia,Melissa officinalis,Liver Enzyme,Rat}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1073.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1073_d71841ae62e9d81f99cf49285e5920c8.pdf} } @article { author = {Mohadjerani, Maryam and Tavakoli, Rahmatollah and Hosseinzadeh, Rahman}, title = {Fatty acid composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Adonis wolgensis L. extract}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {24-30}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.873}, abstract = {Objectives: The objective of this study was to analyze the fatty acid content, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of hydro-methanolic extract of Adonis wolgensis L. (A. wolgensis L.) growing wild in north of Iran. Materials and Methods: Oils of A. wolgensis L. was obtained by means of Soxhlet apparatus from leaves and stems. Methyl esters were derived from the oily mixtures by trans-esterification process and were analyzed by GC/FID and GC/MS systems. Phenolic compounds extraction was done with aqueous methanol (90%). This extract was investigated for antioxidant activity using DPPH radical scavenging and reducing power methods and was also tested against a panel of microorganisms. Results: Linolenic acid (45.83%) and oleic acid (47.54%) were the most abundant fatty acids in leaves and stems, respectively. Hydro-methanolic extract with the high amount of total phenolics (9.20 ±0.011 mg GAE per dry matter) was the potent antioxidant in the assays. Results obtained from measurements of MIC for extract, indicated that E. coli, S. aureus, and S. enteritidis were the most sensitive microorganisms tested, but no activity was observed against Gram-positive microorganism (B. subtilis). Conclusion: The results obtained from the present study indicated that the oil of A. wolgensis leaves and stems contained a high source of poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). These results also showed that hydro-methanolic extract of this plant contained significant antioxidant and antibacterial activities.  }, keywords = {Adonis wolgensis,Antibacterial activity,Antioxidant activity,Fatty acid}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_873.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_873_106a24eaa9b5a32859587640ea99a3df.pdf} } @article { author = {Abdul Mannan, Mohammad and Chandra Sarker, Tushar and Humayan Kabir, Ahmad and Rahman, Md. Mostafizur and Firoz Alam, Mohammad}, title = {Antitumor properties of two traditional aromatic rice genotypes (Kalijira and Chinigura)}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {31-42}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.704}, abstract = {Objective: Methanol extract of bran and unpolished grain of two traditional aromatic rice genotypes viz. Kalijira and Chinigura were assayed for their activity on the growth and initiation of crown-gall tumors on potato disks. Materials and Methods: Three Agrobacterium tumefaciens (A. tumefaciens) strain AtSl0105, AtTa0112, and AtAc0114 were used as the tumor forming agent. Collected rice was separated to bran and unpolished grain by different milling processes and made into fine powder before extracting using methanol. Antitumor assay of plant extracts was performed according to standard potato disc bioassay. Disc diffusion assay (Kirby-Bauer Method) was used to screen A. tumefaciens sensitivity test. Results: The results demonstrated a high correlation between the ability of aromatic rice to inhibit the initiation and growth of crown-gall tumors on potato disks. Maximum tumor inhibitions were observed against the strain AtSl0105 by Kalijira bran (73.91%) and Chinigura bran (69.56%). Both unpolished grains showed significant effect (Kalijira 57.43%, Chinigura 55.53%) to inhibit the tumor. Conclusion: It can be concluded that aromatic rice (Kalijira and Chinigura) might be a potential source of antitumor agent that can be used for further drug development for tumor treatment.}, keywords = {Antitumor activity,Traditional rice,Tumor inhibition,Unpolished grain}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_704.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_704_115a10992f8feb07c45e70d6f66d1792.pdf} } @article { author = {Zahmatkesh, Ensieh and Najafi, Gholamreza and Nejati, Vahid and Heidari, Reza}, title = {Protective effect of royal jelly on the sperm parameters and testosterone level and lipid peroxidation in adult mice treated with oxymetholone}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {43-52}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.896}, abstract = {Objectives: The aim of the present study was to evaluate protective effect of royal jelly on sperm parameters, testosterone level, and malondialdehyde (MDA) production in mice. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two adult male NMRI mice weighing 30±2 g were used. All the animals were divided into 4 groups. Control group: received saline 0.1 ml/mouse/day orally for 30 days. Royal Jelly group (RJ): received royal jelly at dose of 100 mg/kg daily for 30 days orally. Oxymetholone group: the received Oxymetholone (OX) at dose of 5 mg/kg daily for 30 days orally. Royal Jelly+Oxymetholone group: received royal jelly at dose of 100 mg/kg/day orally concomitant with OX administration. Sperm count, sperm motility, viability, maturity, and DNA integrity were analyzed. Furthermore, serum testosterone and MDA concentrations were determined. Results: In Oxymetholone group, sperm count, motility as well as testosterone concentration reduced significantly (p<0.05), while significant (p<0.05) increases in immature sperm, sperm with DNA damaged, and MDA concentration were announced in Oxymetholone group in comparison with control group and Royal Jelly+Oxymetholone group. RJ caused partially amelioration in all of the above- mentioned parameters in Royal Jelly+Oxymetholone group. Conclusion: In conclusion, RJ may be used in combination with OX to improve OX-induced oxidative stress and male infertility.}, keywords = {Mice,Oxymetholone,Royal jelly,Sperm}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_896.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_896_a1a985fc8d45b5c1d5fe25c74cf537ee.pdf} } @article { author = {Hejazian, Seyed Hassan and Bagheri, Seyyed Majid and Dashti-R, Mohammad Hossein}, title = {Relaxant effect of Humulus lupulus extracts on isotonic rat's ileum contractions}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {53-58}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.1171}, abstract = {O Objective: Many biological studies have been done to determine the activity of medicinal plants on gastrointestinal function. Since acetylcholine is the major transmitter involved in the gastrointestinal motility and there are some evidences regarding the cholinergic modulatory effect of hops extract, in the present study spasmolytic and antispasmodic action of hops(Humulus lupulus) on acetylcholine-induced contraction in isolated rat's ileum was evaluated. Material and Methods: In this study, pieces of isolated rat's ileum were mounted in the internal chamber of an organ bath which was filled with Tyrode’s solution and tightly tied to the lever of an isotonic transducer. The contractile responses were recorded by using an oscillograph device. In the presence of normal saline and different concentrations of hops (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mg/ml), the amplitude of contractions induced by10-12 up to 10-2 M acetylcholine was determined. The spasmolytic action of the same extract concentrations was also examined on contraction induced by 10-4 acetylcholine. Results: Our findings indicate that hops extract reduces acetylcholine-induced contraction in all concentrations. The significant inhibitory effects of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mg/ml hops extract on contraction induced by 10-3 M acetylcholine were 81.9, 77, and 29.3, respectively (p< 0.05). Conclusion: According to our findings, hops extract poses a potent spasmolytic and antispasmodic action on acetylcholine-induced contraction in isolated rat’s ileum which may be mediated by cholinergic systems.}, keywords = {Acetylcholine,Antispasmodic,Humulus lupulus,Ileum}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1171.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1171_72ed29309122bc9346c1b8378a5680d1.pdf} } @article { author = {Adeniyi Yahaya, Tijani and Ehiabhi Okhale, Samuel and Oluwakanyinsola Adeola, Salawu}, title = {Neuropharmacological effects of standardized aqueous stem bark extract of Parkia biglobossa in Wistar rats}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {59-71}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.1519}, abstract = {Objective: Parkia biglobossa stem bark decoction is a popular medicinal plant preparation used as calming agent for tensed patients in traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of aqueous stem bark extract of Parkia biglobossa (AEPB) and its active fraction AEPBF3 on anxiety, spontaneous alternation behavior, and locomotor activity. The open field apparatus was used to evaluate effects of AEPB and AEPBF3 on locomotion.The APBE and the  active fraction AEPBF3 were standardized using reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography to establish finger print to ascertain identity and stability of the extracts over time. Materials and Methods: The oral median lethal doses (LD50) of AEPB and AEPBF3 were evaluated using modified Lorke’s method in rats. The  effect of APBE (50-200 mg/kg p.o.), APBEF3 (25 and 50 mg/kg p.o.), diazepam (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.), and 10 ml normal saline/kg on anxiety-like behavior, spontaneous alternation behavior, and locomotion activity were evaluated in rats on elevated plus maze (EPM), Zero-maze, Y-maze, and open field apparatus, respectively. The oral LD50 values of AEPB and AEPBF3 were estimated to be 5000 mg/kg and 3800 mg/kg body weight in rats, respectively. Results: AEPB and AEPBF3 significantly (F6, 41=2342, p<0.0001) increased time spent in the open arm of EPM and significantly (F6, 41=2323, p<0.0001) increased time spent in open arms of the Zero maze. The AEPB and AEPBF3 administration produced significant increase (F5, 35=154, p<0.0001) in spontaneous alternation behavior in rats. The AEPB extract and its fraction AEPBF3 significantly increased total locomotor activity (F6, 41=413, p<0.0001) and rearing (F6, 41=150, p<0.0001) in the open field apparatus. Conclusion: The results of the present study provided evidence for anxiolytic and nootropic effects of the AEPB and AEPBF3, thus providing scientific basis for its continuous use in the management of neuropsychiatric disorders characterized by apprehension and amnesia.}, keywords = {Anxiety,Locomotion,Memory,Parkia biglobossa,Spontaneous alternation behaviour,Y-maze}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1519.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1519_5dcfd93742add497bac2da4be59ec0d0.pdf} } @article { author = {Meamarbashi, Abbas}, title = {Instant effects of peppermint essential oil on the physiological parameters and exercise performance}, journal = {Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine}, volume = {4}, number = {1}, pages = {72-78}, year = {2014}, publisher = {Mashhad University of Medical Sciences}, issn = {2228-7930}, eissn = {2228-7949}, doi = {10.22038/ajp.2014.1170}, abstract = {Objective: Effect of peppermint on exercise performance was previously investigated but equivocal findings exist. This study aimed to investigate the effects of peppermint ingestion on the physiological parameters and exercise performance after 5 min and 1 h. Materials and Methods: Thirty healthy male university students were randomly divided into experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. Maximum isometric grip force, vertical and long jumps, spirometric parameters, visual and audio reaction times, blood pressure, heart rate, and breath rate were recorded three times: before, five minutes, and one hour after single dose oral administration of peppermint essential oil (50 µl). Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Results: Our results revealed significant improvement in all of the variables after oral administration of peppermint essential oil.  Experimental group compared with control group showed an incremental and a significant increase in the grip force (36.1%), standing vertical jump (7.0%), and standing long jump (6.4%). Data obtained from the experimental group after five minutes exhibited a significant increase in the forced vital capacity in first second (FVC1)(35.1%), peak inspiratory flow rate (PIF) (66.4%), and peak expiratory flow rate (PEF) (65.1%), whereas after one hour, only PIF shown a significant increase as compare with the baseline and control group. At both times, visual and audio reaction times were significantly decreased. Physiological parameters were also significantly improved after five minutes. A considerable enhancement in the grip force, spiromery, and other parameters were the important findings of this study. Conclusion: An improvement in the spirometric measurements (FVC1, PEF, and PIF) might be due to the peppermint effects on the bronchial smooth muscle tonicity with or without affecting the lung surfactant. Yet, no scientific evidence exists regarding isometric force enhancement in this novel study.  }, keywords = {Isometric force,Peppermint,Reaction time,Spirometry}, url = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1170.html}, eprint = {https://ajp.mums.ac.ir/article_1170_96fc2b0dc2320ce2783f0424bcf989e3.pdf} }