Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Review
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: an overview of herbals used in helminthiasis
Original source:
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A. Nandhini and C. Sumathi
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Review
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Helminthiasis is a significant global health concern, particularly in tropical regions, where infestations due to worms lead to malnutrition, anemia, and other serious health problems. Factors contributing to this issue include poor sanitation and crowded living conditions. Traditional antihelminthic drugs often have contraindications, especially during pregnancy, prompting interest in herbal remedies as safer alternatives. Herbal treatments have been used historically, with many medicinal plants showing promise in treating parasitic infections. This review emphasizes the need for natural alternatives and the potential of herbal remedies to complement or replace synthetic drugs.One important concept discussed is the role of herbal products in combating helminthiasis. Many plants are recognized for their anthelmintic properties, with studies validating their effectiveness. Herbal medicines, containing various active compounds, can provide dual benefits by controlling parasites while minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, resistance to conventional drugs is less likely to develop with natural compounds, which often contain a mixture of components that act synergistically against parasites.
Another significant concept is the growing interest in plant extracts as viable antihelminthic options. Various studies have focused on specific plants, such as Calotropis procera and Melia azedarach, which have demonstrated effective antihelmintic activity against certain worm species. These plants exhibit qualities that enable them to inhibit larval development and kill adult worms, presenting a promising avenue for treatment in both humans and livestock.
The review also highlights the benefits of tannins in controlling parasitism. Tannins, secondary metabolites found in many plants, exhibit anthelmintic activity by binding to proteins in the gastrointestinal tract of host animals or glycoproteins on the cuticles of parasites. These compounds interfere with the life cycle of helminths, offering a potential natural alternative to conventional treatments.
In conclusion, there is a critical need for further exploration and validation of herbal remedies as effective treatments for helminthiasis. The documented benefits of herbal products, their multifaceted action, and lower risk of resistance highlight their importance in modern medicine. Addressing the global challenge posed by helminth infections through the development of plant-based therapies could enhance treatment options and lead to improved health outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is helminthiasis and its common causes?
Helminthiasis refers to worm infestations, commonly caused by poor sanitation, hygiene, malnutrition, and crowded living conditions, affecting individuals regardless of age or gender.
Why are herbal remedies gaining attention for helminthiasis?
Herbal remedies are considered safer and effective in eliminating worms with fewer side effects compared to synthetic antihelminthic drugs, particularly important for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women.
What roles do plant extracts play in treating helminthiasis?
Various medicinal plants have been traditionally used and are currently studied for their anthelmintic properties, offering potential alternatives to synthetic medications that may cause resistance.
How do tannins contribute to antihelminthic activity in plants?
Tannins, found in many plants, exhibit antihelminthic effects by binding to proteins in parasites' gastrointestinal tracts, disrupting their metabolism and leading to their death.
Can you name a few plants with antihelminthic properties?
Some notable plants include Melia azedarach, Calotropis procera, and Momordica charantia, each showing varying degrees of effectiveness against helminths in different studies.
What challenges exist in developing antihelminthic herbal products?
Challenges include validating the effectiveness of herbal compounds through scientific research, managing the complexities of natural product formulations, and ensuring consistent quality and efficacy.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “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) Drug:
A drug is a substance used for diagnosing, treating, or preventing diseases. In the context of helminthiasis, antihelminthic drugs are crucial for controlling worm infestations. However, many conventional drugs have adverse effects or are contraindicated in certain populations, leading to a search for safer herbal alternatives.
2) Worm:
Worms, specifically helminths, are multicellular parasites that can infest the human and animal intestines, causing significant health issues like malnutrition and anemia. Infestations are common in areas with poor sanitation, leading to increased research into natural remedies, such as herbal treatments, to effectively combat these infections.
3) Activity:
Activity refers to the biological effects that substances, such as herbal extracts or drugs, have on organisms. In the context of antihelminthics, activity relates to the ability of certain plants and compounds to kill or expel helminths, thereby providing an alternative to synthetic medications with fewer side effects.
4) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses various practices and substances used to promote health and treat disease. In terms of helminth treatment, herbal medicine is gaining traction as a safer alternative to conventional drugs. Evidence supporting the efficacy of plant-based treatments is crucial for integrating them into modern health care practices.
5) Momordica charantia:
Momordica charantia, also known as bitter gourd, has multipurpose medicinal uses, including antihelmintic properties. Its extracts demonstrate efficacy against helminths and various ailments, such as diabetes and cancer. As a traditional remedy, it contributes to holistic healthcare approaches, particularly in regions reliant on indigenous plant medicines.
6) Benincasa hispida:
Benincasa hispida, or ash gourd, is utilized in traditional medicine for various health conditions, including helminthiasis. Its extracts show significant anthelmintic activity, effectively paralyzing and killing worms. This plant's traditional uses highlight the importance of exploring herbal options for treating infectious diseases in modern medicine.
7) Camara (Cāmara, Camará):
Camara refers to Lantana camara, a plant known for its diverse medicinal properties, including antihelmintic activity. Traditionally used to treat various ailments, its extracts have shown efficacy against gastrointestinal parasites. The exploration of its benefits contributes to the growing demand for herbal treatments in addressing infections.
8) Dioscorea bulbifera:
Dioscorea bulbifera, commonly known as a climbing herb, is recognized for its various medicinal applications, including antihelminthic effects. Its use in traditional medicine underscores the importance of indigenous plants in treating digestive disorders and controlling parasitic infections, emphasizing the need for further scientific exploration.
9) Trichosanthes dioica:
Trichosanthes dioica is a climbing plant known for its therapeutic benefits, including antihelmintic properties. Its traditional uses span digestive and respiratory issues, highlighting the value of natural remedies. Continued research into such plants can offer safer, effective alternatives for managing helminth infections.
10) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the study of how drugs interact with biological systems. In the context of helminthiasis, understanding pharmacology is essential to explore and validate the efficacy of herbal treatments against helminths, ensuring that these natural remedies can be effectively integrated into medical practice.
11) Malnutrition:
Malnutrition is a major health issue often exacerbated by helminth infections, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and growth impairment. The connection between worm infestations and malnutrition underscores the importance of effective treatments, including herbal remedies, which can help alleviate both conditions in affected populations.
12) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body's response to infection or injury, which can be exacerbated by parasitic infestations like helminthiasis. Herbal anti-inflammatories may play a role in mitigating inflammation caused by worm infections, illustrating the therapeutic potential of plant-based treatments in holistic healthcare approaches.
13) Water:
Water is a crucial component in the preparation of herbal medicines, as many active compounds are extracted through infusions or decoctions. The efficacy of this extraction method is important for maximizing the medicinal qualities of plants used in treating helminth infections and promoting overall health.
14) Ulcer:
Ulcers can be caused by various factors, including parasitic infections like helminthiasis. Herbal medicines that exhibit antihelminthic properties may also contribute to ulcer treatment, addressing the underlying issues while promoting healing. Understanding this relationship is vital for integrating herbal remedies into comprehensive healthcare.
15) Ashan (Aśan, Āsan):
Asan refers to Asan Memorial Dental College & Hospital, the institution associated with the authors of the review. This context emphasizes the academic collaboration and research efforts aimed at exploring the effectiveness of herbal treatments for helminthiasis, contributing to evidence-based medicine.
16) Mental disorder:
Mental disorders can be linked to various health conditions, including those caused by parasitic infections. The stress of dealing with helminthiasis or associated health issues may exacerbate mental health problems, highlighting the need for holistic treatment approaches that address both physiological and psychological symptoms.
17) Bitter gourd:
Bitter gourd, or Momordica charantia, is known for its extensive medicinal properties, including its ability to act against helminths. Its bitter taste is associated with its health benefits, and it is often prescribed in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, reinforcing the significance of herbal remedies.
18) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial properties refer to a substance's ability to fight bacterial infections. Many plants with antihelminthic activities also exhibit anti-bacterial properties, suggesting a dual benefit in treating infections. This quality enhances the appeal of herbal remedies in contemporary health practices, emphasizing their multifaceted roles.
19) Embelia ribes:
Embelia ribes is a plant recognized for its antihelminthic properties, traditionally used to treat parasitic infections. Its inclusion in herbal medicine illustrates the value of exploring diverse plant sources for developing effective treatments against helminths, especially in regions reliant on natural remedies for health care.
20) Science (Scientific):
Scientific inquiry is vital for validating the efficacy of herbal treatments against helminths. Research and experimentation lend credibility to traditional uses of plants and help integrate effective natural remedies into modern medicine, addressing the growing need for alternatives to synthetic drugs.
21) Ayurveda (Āyurveda, Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine that emphasizes the use of natural remedies, including herbs, for health management. Many plants used in Ayurvedic practices, such as those with antihelminthic properties, have gained attention in modern research for their potential therapeutic benefits and holistic healing qualities.
22) Anishata (Anīśatā):
Clausena anisata is noted for its antihelminthic activity, making it a significant plant in the search for natural alternatives to synthetic drugs. Its therapeutic potential showcases the importance of researching different plant species for their biological activities, particularly in treating parasitic infections.
23) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Hygiene is crucial in preventing helminth infestations, often exacerbated by poor sanitation practices. Understanding this relationship reinforces the importance of combining good hygiene with effective treatment options, such as herbal remedies, to control and prevent the spread of parasitic infections in vulnerable populations.
24) Karela (Karēlā, Karelā):
Karela is the common name for Momordica charantia, a plant with extensive medicinal properties, particularly in traditional medicine. The fruit and other parts are renowned for their antihelminthic effects, making Karela a focal point in discussions regarding natural approaches to treating worm infestations.
25) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Some plants with antihelminthic properties, such as bitter gourd, are also studied for their anticancer effects. This dual functionality of certain herbal remedies expands their therapeutic potential in holistic health strategies.
26) Bitter:
The term 'bitter' often describes the taste of certain medicinal plants, such as Momordica charantia. This characteristic is not just a sensory attribute; it is commonly associated with health benefits, including antimicrobial and antihelminthic effects, emphasizing the importance of taste in herbal pharmacology.
27) Misuse:
Misuse of conventional antihelminthic drugs can lead to resistance in parasitic populations, complicating treatment outcomes. Responsible usage and exploring alternative herbal remedies are essential to manage this issue, ensuring effective treatment strategies that mitigate the risks associated with over-reliance on synthetic medications.
28) Blood:
Blood is affected by helminth infections, often leading to anemia and nutritional deficiencies. The connection between parasitic infestations and blood health highlights the need for effective antihelminthics, including herbal options that may contribute to improving overall blood health and wellbeing.
29) Neem:
Neem is a tree known for its wide range of medicinal properties, including antihelminthic activity. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, it plays a significant role in natural health systems for managing various infections, emphasizing the importance of indigenous plants in contemporary herbal medicine.
30) Sage:
Sage is a plant known for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. In relation to helminthiasis, signifying the richness of herbal remedies broadens their application in treatments, allowing practitioners to utilize diverse botanical resources to address helminth infections.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Review’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Momordica charantia, Medicinal plant, Research findings, Traditional medicine, Evidence-based medicine, Traditional remedies, Helminthiasis, Antimicrobial activities, Experimental study, Antihelminthic drug, Herbal formulation, Anti-inflammatory activities, Secondary metabolite, In vitro studies, Anthelmintic activity, Herbal therapy, Natural remedy, Herbal product, Environmental Impact, Plant Extract, Experimental evidence, In vitro activity, Anthelmintic activities, Phytochemical research, Ethnomedicinal use, Active compound, Indigenous medicinal plant, Cassia auriculata, Plant product, Condensed tannin, Medicinal and poisonous plants.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.