Effects of Malaysian Herbs on Osteoporotic Rat Models: An Review
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: An Evidence-Based Review: The Effects of Malaysian Traditional Herbs on Osteoporotic Rat Models
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:
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Nur Adlina Mohammad, Norfarah Izzaty Razaly, Mohd Dzulkhairi Mohd Rani, Muhammad Shamsir Mohd Aris, Nadia Mohd Effendy
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: An Evidence-Based Review: The Effects of Malaysian Traditional Herbs on Osteoporotic Rat Models
Year: 2018 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2018.25.4.2
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Osteoporosis is often referred to as a silent disease because its early symptoms frequently go unrecognized, leading to significant issues like bone loss, decreased mineral density, and an increased likelihood of fractures. Factors such as hormonal deficiencies linked to aging or medication-induced changes are significant contributors to osteoporosis. Recently, there has been growing interest in the potential of natural plants, particularly Malaysian herbs like Piper sarmentosum, Eurycoma longifolia, and Labisia pumila, as alternative treatments for osteoporosis due to their phytochemical properties.
Therapeutic Effects of Malaysian Herbs
This study examined the effectiveness of the aforementioned herbs against osteoporotic changes by reviewing various animal studies. Among the three, Piper sarmentosum demonstrated promising anti-osteoporotic effects, particularly by inhibiting the enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, which plays a crucial role in glucocorticoid function that can negatively impact bone density. On the other hand, studies indicated that while Eurycoma longifolia showed some benefits, it often failed to maintain bone strength effectively compared to the other herbs. Labisia pumila was noted for its ability to mimic estrogen effects and improve bone microarchitecture, making it a strong candidate for osteoporosis treatment. Overall, the research highlights the varied impacts of these herbs on different models of osteoporosis, suggesting they might offer safer therapeutic alternatives to conventional hormone replacement therapies.
Conclusion
The findings from this systematic review suggest that Malaysian herbs possess significant potential in the treatment of osteoporosis, particularly Piper sarmentosum and Labisia pumila. Though Eurycoma longifolia also holds some benefits, its effectiveness in bone strength preservation is less conclusive. This research underscores the importance of exploring natural medicinal options as alternatives to traditional treatments, which often come with serious side effects. Future studies should further investigate these herbs' benefits and mechanisms to better understand their role in managing osteoporosis and potentially lead to the development of effective, natural therapeutic agents.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is osteoporosis and its primary causes?
Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease characterized by reduced bone density and increased fracture risk. This condition can arise from hormonal deficiencies due to aging or drug use, leading to an imbalance in bone remodeling.
Which Malaysian herbs are explored for their anti-osteoporotic effects?
The study investigates three Malaysian herbs: Piper sarmentosum, Eurycoma longifolia, and Labisia pumila. These herbs are known for their phytochemical properties and potential therapeutic effects on osteoporosis.
What methods were used to evaluate the herbs' effectiveness?
The effectiveness of the herbs was evaluated through various animal studies, focusing on aspects like bone biomechanical strength, biochemical markers, microarchitecture, histomorphometry, and gene expression related to bone metabolism.
What were the main findings regarding Labisia pumila?
Labisia pumila demonstrated significant potential in enhancing bone strength, improving trabecular microarchitecture, and influencing bone resorption markers. Its effects suggest it could serve as an alternative to estrogen replacement therapy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Effects of Malaysian Herbs on Osteoporotic Rat Models: An Review”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Study (Studying):
In research, a study represents a detailed investigation undertaken to gain insights into specific scientific questions or hypotheses. It involves systematic data collection and analysis to draw conclusions. In the context of this overview, studies provide evidence regarding the effects of Malaysian herbs on osteoporosis, showcasing methodologies and results significant for medical advancement.
2) Sam (Sham):
The term 'sham' is often used in experimental research to refer to a control group that undergoes a procedure similar to the experimental group but does not receive the active treatment. This controls for psychological effects, allowing researchers to validate the effectiveness of treatments being studied, particularly in animal models of diseases.
3) Table:
In academic and scientific contexts, a table refers to a structured presentation of data or information, typically organized in rows and columns. Tables efficiently convey results and findings, allowing for quick comparison of variables. In this review, tables summarize individual study results related to the anti-osteoporotic effects of herbs.
4) Surface:
The surface refers to the outer layer or boundary of an object. In the context of bone studies, surface parameters relate to measurements that assess the characteristics of the bone's exterior environment, relevant in evaluating the interaction between biological treatments and the bone's structural integrity in scientific investigations.
5) Male:
The term 'male' is commonly used in biological sciences to denote organisms of the sex that typically produces small, mobile gametes (sperm). In this review, male rat models are often employed for studying osteoporosis to understand hormonal differences and treatment responses, providing insights into gender-specific treatment efficacy.
6) Activity:
Activity refers to the state of being active or engaged in particular processes or actions. In scientific research, activity can signify biological functions, such as enzymatic reactions, hormone interactions, or metabolic processes. Analyzing activity levels in treated animals helps to elucidate the mechanisms of action behind medicinal herbs.
7) Water:
Water is crucial for all biological processes and is often used in research as a medium for extracting compounds from plants or to hydrate study subjects. In this review, aqueous extracts of Malaysian herbs are evaluated for their bioactive properties against osteoporosis, emphasizing water’s role as a solvent in herbal infusions.
8) Disease:
Disease refers to a pathological condition characterized by specific symptoms or abnormalities in bodily functions. Understanding disease processes, such as osteoporosis, is vital for developing effective treatments. This review focuses on various treatments and their effectiveness in combating osteoporotic changes, contributing to advancing medical knowledge on disease management.
9) Post:
The prefix 'post' usually indicates a timeline after a specific event or condition, such as post-menopausal or post-surgery phases in scientific studies. In osteoporosis research, the term 'post' often discusses changes or therapeutic responses occurring after interventions or within relevant physiological contexts, aiding in clarifying treatment impacts.
10) Drug:
Drug refers to any substance that, when introduced into a living organism, alters physiological functions. In the context of this review, the term encompasses both synthetic and natural substances, including Malaysian herbs, which may serve as alternative or adjunct therapies for osteoporosis, contrasting with conventional pharmacologic treatments.
11) Mineral:
Minerals are inorganic substances essential for various metabolic processes and structural integrity within the body. In the study of osteoporosis, understanding the role of minerals like calcium and phosphorus is paramount, as they significantly influence bone density, structure, and overall health, affecting treatment approaches using natural substances.
12) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the science of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases through various therapeutic approaches, including pharmaceuticals and herbal remedies. In the context of this review, the medicinal properties of Malaysian herbs highlight their potential role in alternative therapies against osteoporosis, promoting natural health solutions.
13) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a classification of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant effects and potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Their presence within herbs explored in this review suggests a significant role in mediating the therapeutic effects against osteoporosis, warranting further investigation into their specific mechanisms.
14) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to approaches based on empirical evidence, systematic inquiry, and reproducibility. In health research, scientific methods ensure findings are reliable and valid, contributing to the establishment of knowledge regarding herbal treatments for osteoporosis and pushing the boundaries of traditional medical practices towards evidence-based options.
15) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage. In bone health research, understanding pain is critical, particularly related to conditions like osteoporosis. Evaluating pain responses helps inform therapeutic strategies focusing on alleviating discomfort while promoting healing and improving quality of life.
16) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the branch of medicine and biology concerned with drug action and the study of how drugs affect living organisms. In the context of this review, it includes exploring the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action of Malaysian herbs that may serve as alternative treatments for osteoporosis.
17) Stiffness:
Stiffness refers to the resistance of an elastic body to deformation, which in bones reflects their ability to withstand applied forces. It's an important parameter in biomechanical studies of osteoporosis, where decreased stiffness can indicate fragility, helping assess the efficacy of treatments through their effects on bone health.
18) Patel:
Patel, likely a reference to a researcher, indicates contributions to scholarly work in medicinal sciences. In academic documents, naming authors highlights the collaborative nature of research essential for credibility. This name represents the human effort behind science, particularly in studying traditional herbs’ effects on osteoporosis.
19) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds produced by plants, often credited with health benefits. In the context of the reviewed herbs, phytochemicals underpin their therapeutic potential, particularly regarding osteoprotective effects. Researching these compounds enhances understanding of how natural products can assist in managing or preventing osteoporosis.
20) Meeting:
The term 'meeting' may refer to events where researchers gather to discuss findings, share ideas, and collaborate on scientific advancement. In academia, meetings provide vital networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and innovation in the study of herbal remedies for osteoporosis, contributing to the growth of knowledge in this field.
21) Cancer:
Cancer refers to diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and division. Understanding its biological mechanisms often intersects with osteoporosis research, particularly concerning treatment overlaps and potential side effects of conventional therapies. Examining natural remedies like Malaysian herbs could reveal new avenues for reducing cancer risk alongside bone health improvement.
22) Blood:
Blood, containing various cells and biomolecules, plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen and nutrients, regulating immune functions, and facilitating healing processes. In osteoporosis research, analyzing blood markers provides insights into bone metabolism and the impacts of treatments, contributing to understanding how herbal supplements affect systemic health.
23) Piper longum:
Piper longum is a traditional medicinal plant known for its various therapeutic properties. In relation to osteoporosis, its study indicates relevance in exploring alternative treatments and understanding how its pharmacological components may contribute to managing or mitigating bone density loss associated with osteoporotic conditions.
24) Animal:
In research contexts, animals are often used as models to study human diseases due to physiological similarities. When evaluating treatments for osteoporosis, animal studies provide preliminary insights into how herbal remedies may act and influence bone health, forming the basis for further clinical research.
25) Rules:
Rules can refer to guidelines or standards that dictate how research should be conducted, ensuring ethical treatment of subjects and validity of results. In scientific studies, adhering to rules is essential for building trust in findings, particularly when evaluating the effectiveness of treatments against diseases like osteoporosis.
26) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a biological response to harmful stimuli such as pathogens or injury. In osteoporosis, chronic inflammation can degrade bone tissue and increase fracture risk. Understanding the inflammatory pathways involved can inform therapeutic strategies, especially when studying the effects of anti-inflammatory herbs on bone health.
27) Performance:
Performance in scientific research often refers to the efficacy or effectiveness of treatments or interventions. In studies examining osteoporosis, evaluating the performance of herbal remedies involves measuring their impact on bone density, structural integrity, and overall health improvement, providing evidence for their use in treatment regimens.
28) Measurement:
Measurement refers to the quantification of physical or biological parameters in scientific research. In the study of osteoporosis, accurate measurement of bone density, strength, and biochemical markers is crucial for assessing the efficacy of treatments and understanding their potential effects on bone metabolism and health outcomes.
29) Toxicology:
Toxicology is the study of the adverse effects of substances on living organisms. Understanding the toxicological profiles of medicinal herbs is essential to ensure safety and efficacy in treatments for osteoporosis. Evaluating toxicity helps optimize formulations and dosage regimens, contributing to safer therapeutic options.
30) Language:
Language in scientific discourse is fundamental for disseminating knowledge and findings. It facilitates communication among researchers, enabling collaboration and sharing of results related to herbal medicine and osteoporosis. Language also shapes how information is interpreted and understood in the context of health and science.
31) Writing:
Writing is the process of documenting scientific findings, observations, and ideas. In research, clear and precise writing is crucial for articulating complex concepts and methodologies, ensuring that studies on treatments for osteoporosis are accessible to a wide audience, including other researchers and practitioners in the field.
32) Species:
Species denotes a specific group of organisms sharing common characteristics. In biological research, understanding different species is vital, as they may react differently to treatments. This consideration is crucial when evaluating the effects of herbal remedies on osteoporosis, where model selection impacts the relevance of results.
33) Shahar (Sahar):
Shahar may refer to an author contributing to studies in the field; highlighting such individuals emphasizes the collaborative nature of research. Contributions of researchers like Shahar are pivotal in advancing knowledge on the efficacy of natural products, such as herbs, in combating osteoporosis.
34) Family:
Family, in biological taxonomy, is a higher taxonomic rank grouping related organisms. Understanding the family classifications of plants involved in osteoporosis research aids in identifying potentially beneficial compounds and their applications. This taxonomic insight helps in selecting appropriate species for studying their medicinal properties.
35) Indian:
Indian likely references the geographical origin of certain herbs or the context of traditional medicine practices. In the study of osteoporosis, acknowledging Indian herbal remedies may provide insight into alternative treatment options and comparative efficacy of herbs like those from Malaysia, reflecting a broader understanding of ethnomedicine.
36) Annal:
The term 'annal' traditionally refers to recorded events, typically in a chronological manner. In academic publishing, annals can signify journals documenting significant discoveries and research in various fields, including those related to osteoporosis and possible interventions by studying various traditional herbs.
37) Ganu:
Ganu likely denotes a researcher or author involved in studies relevant to herbal treatments for osteoporosis. Naming individuals in research highlights the collaborative nature of scientific inquiry. Contributions from researchers like Ganu emphasize teamwork in uncovering natural health solutions for conditions like osteoporosis.
38) Meli:
Meli likely identifies a researcher associated with the reviewed studies on Malaysian herbs and their potential roles in combating osteoporosis. Mentioning individuals, such as Meli, within the context of academic work underscores the collective effort in advancing understanding of traditional herbal remedies through rigorous scientific investigation.
39) Food:
Food in nutritional science refers to any edible substance that provides energy and nutrients to living organisms. In the context of herbal studies, examining how food items or supplementation, including herbs, impact health is essential to discovering alternative treatments or preventive measures against diseases like osteoporosis.
40) Peng:
Peng might refer to an author contributing to studies included in this review. Highlighting researchers such as Peng illustrates the collaborative efforts involved in scientific endeavors. This acknowledgment is crucial for recognizing the individuals who advance research on herbal remedies and their efficacy for health conditions.
41) Life:
Life encompasses the condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic objects, characterized by biological processes such as growth, reproduction, and adaptation. In the scope of research concerning osteoporosis, understanding life sciences aids in examining how natural interventions like herbs can enhance health and longevity, particularly in vulnerable populations.
42) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the study and application of drugs and their effects on biological systems. In the context of herbal medicine for osteoporosis, understanding pharmacological properties of herbs enables researchers to explore their therapeutic potential while drawing parallels and comparisons to conventional pharmaceutical treatments, fostering multidisciplinary approaches.
43) Developing:
Developing denotes the process of growth, improvement, or advancement. In the field of medicinal research, developing new treatments means employing innovative approaches or enhancing existing therapies for conditions like osteoporosis. This concept underscores the need for continuous exploration in finding effective solutions within herbal and traditional medicine.
44) Substance:
Substance refers to a particular kind of matter with specific properties. In pharmacology and health studies, identifying and understanding substances, especially those derived from plants such as herbs, is essential for evaluating their effects on health, including potential benefits in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.
45) Education:
Education in the context of health sciences emphasizes the importance of knowledge dissemination and skill development among practitioners and researchers. Understanding the role of herbal remedies for osteoporosis involves educating stakeholders, which can further inform clinical practices and foster acceptance of alternative approaches in healthcare.
46) Relative:
Relative is a term indicating a comparison among entities or concepts, often used to contextualize findings in research. In studying treatments for osteoporosis, relative effectiveness of herbal remedies vs. conventional pharmaceuticals helps define their roles and potential integration into broader treatment strategies.
47) Nausea:
Nausea describes the sensation of an urge to vomit and can be a side effect of various medications. Understanding nausea is critical in the assessment of alternative treatments; if herbal remedies can alleviate or avoid nausea while providing therapeutic benefits, they could enhance patient adherence to treatment programs.
48) Powder:
Powder refers to a form of a substance that consists of fine particles, commonly used in herbal medicine. Many herbs are processed into powder for easy consumption, improving bioavailability and dosing accuracy. In research, the form of herbal treatment can significantly influence effectiveness in conditions like osteoporosis.
49) Kappa:
Kappa typically refers to a Greek letter often associated with statistical measures or biological processes in academic contexts. Its relevance may arise in bioinformatics studies or molecular biology, contributing to understanding protein interactions or research methodologies related to osteoporosis and herbal treatments within scientific literature.
50) Cina:
China could refer to a geographical region significant for its historical and contemporary contributions to herbal medicine. Understanding herbal practices in China, especially those comparable to Malaysian herbs studied for osteoporosis, might unveil valuable insights into traditional remedies, cross-cultural approaches to health, and effective natural treatments.
51) Beta:
Beta designates a second in a sequence or represents the second letter in the Greek alphabet, often utilized in scientific terminology. In pharmacology or medical research, 'beta' may refer to specific receptors or biological processes, and its role helps elucidate mechanisms influencing treatment outcomes or interactions in osteoporosis studies.
52) Chau:
Chau likely identifies a researcher or contributor in the body of work examining the effects of herbal treatments. Acknowledging individual contributions within the broader research context emphasizes the collaborative efforts in advancing knowledge and understanding of natural remedies for osteoporosis and their implications in health.
53) Pulu:
Pulu may relate to a local or traditional term, possibly indicating a specific plant or cultural reference. In studying Malaysian herbs, contextualizing regional names enhances understanding of their application in traditional medicine and helps preserve the cultural heritage while exploring their potential medicinal value in treating conditions like osteoporosis.
54) Tree:
In botanical contexts, a tree refers to a perennial plant with a trunk that supports branches and leaves. Various trees produce herbal remedies that may have therapeutic effects on conditions like osteoporosis. Understanding their properties and ecological impact enriches the body of knowledge in natural medicine and health sciences.
55) Soil:
Soil is the upper layer of earth where plants grow, containing a mixture of organic matter, minerals, gases, liquids, and organisms. Understanding soil quality and health directly affects herbal growth and potency. In herbal pharmacology, the soil's composition can influence the bioactive profiles of herbs potentially used in treating conditions like osteoporosis.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Effects of Malaysian Herbs on Osteoporotic Rat Models: An Review’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Eurycoma longifolia, Stiffness, Phytochemical, Displacement, Treatment, Therapeutic effect, Adverse effect, Alternative medicine, Herbal medicine, Result, Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria, Sample size, Inclusion and exclusion criteria, World Health Organization, Rat model, Anti-inflammatory properties, Oxidative stress, Hormone Replacement Therapy, Anti oxidant, Reactive oxygen species, Research article, Calcium content, Anti-oxidant Properties, Metabolic disorder, Gene expression, Data extraction, Systematic Review, Aqueous extract, Bone health, Animal studies, In vitro studies, Superoxide dismutase, Positive control group, Bone remodeling, Bone mineral density, Normal control, Male Wistar rats, Stress, Ethanol extract, Malondialdehyde, Methanol extract, Normal saline, Osteoporosis, Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Bone healing, Osteoblasts, Anti-osteoporotic effect, Postmenopausal osteoporosis, Estrogen deficiency, Bioactive compound, Hematoxylin and eosin, Conventional drugs, Extraction method, Sex hormone, Bone fracture, Computed tomography, Serum cortisol, Serum testosterone level, Testosterone Level, Radiological study, Estrogen level, Fracture healing, Fracture risk, Bone density, Androgen deficiency, Bone resorption, Dose-dependent effect, Histological analysis, EDTA, Methanol, Negative control group, Estrogen replacement therapy, Bone loss, Estrogen receptor, Atomic absorption spectrophotometer, Testosterone Production, Phytoestrogenic properties, Ethanol, Primary osteoporosis, Secondary osteoporosis, Search strategy, Synthetic drug, Osteoblastic activity, Traditional herb, Young's modulus, Blood sample, Olive oil, Breaking strength, Serum osteocalcin, Thyroxine, Histological slides, Antioxidative enzyme, Bone metabolism, Osteotomy, Aromatase inhibitor, Osteoclastogenesis, Osteocalcin, Drug-induced osteoporosis, Lipid peroxidation activity, Osteoclastic activity, Hormonal deficiency, Literature searches, Study Characteristics, Herbal supplement, Thiazolidinedione, Maximum load, Three point bending test, Experimental tests, Time and dose dependent, Plastic deformation, Glycyrrhetinic acid, Corticosterone level, Bone microarchitecture, Anti oxidative, Anti-oxidative properties, Photomicrograph analysis, Bone turnover, Anti-osteoporotic agent, Histomorphometry, Natural plant, Acclimatisation Period, Osteocyte apoptosis, Osteoclast formation, Bone-related genes, Sham group, Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis, Bone Formation, Web of Science, Anti-malarial properties, Baseline, Osteoclast, Intrinsic parameters, Serum Cortisol Level, Anti oxidative enzymes, Flavonoid and phenolic content, Elastic modulus.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.
Bone-structure, English language.