Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medical Research

Efficacy of Qurse Ziabetas Khas and Habb-e-Asab in the Management of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Case Series

Mohd Shahid — 2025-08-25

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), typically managed symptomatically owing to a lack of curative therapies. The Unani System of Medicine offers holistic management strategies aligned with Akhlat (~humoral) balance and detoxification. This case series assessed the efficacy of two classical Unani formulations, Qurse Ziabetus Khas (QZK) and Habb-e-Asab (HA), in DPN patients. Three male patients, aged 52–59 years, diagnosed with T2DM and DPN symptoms, were included. Each patient had experienced tingling, numbness, and burning pain in the lower extremities. The intervention involved oral administration of QZK (2 g) and HA (500 mg) twice daily for 56 days alongside conventional medicines. Clinical evaluation included the Toronto Clinical Neuropathy Score; Vibration Perception Threshold (VPT); Visual Analogue Scale for pain, burning sensation, and numbness with HbA1c levels; and WHOQOL-BREF for quality of life. Post-treatment, two patients showed marked reductions in VPT values, and all three patients reported decreased pain intensity (VAS scores decreased from 8–9/10 to 3–6/10). The WHOQOL-BREF scores improved in all the patients (40–47 to 55–71). HbA1c levels decreased, indicating improved glycemic control. No adverse events were reported. QZK and HA have demonstrated promising results in alleviating neuropathic symptoms, improving glycemic control, and enhancing the quality of life in patients. These findings support Unani pharmacotherapy as a complementary approach for the management of DPN. Larger controlled trials are needed to confirm these observations and to establish standardized treatment protocols.

Effects of Helicobacter Pylori on Gastric Cancer in the Adult Population: A Systematic Review

Aayam Sapkota — 2025-09-20

Gastric cancer is a cancer that leads to high mortality worldwide. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a major risk factor for gastric cancer. This review covers non-cardia and cardia gastric adenocarcinomas (both clinically and histopathologically confirmed) according to the included studies. Early detection and eradication therapy has been proposed in order to reduce incidence and mortality. This systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Searches from January 2020 to July 2025 identified 32 eligible studies. These included four randomized controlled trials, one quasi-experimental study, three systematic reviews with meta-analysis, and 24 observational studies. Most were conducted in East Asia and Latin America. Eradication therapy was associated with a 40–55% reduction in the occurrence of gastric cancer, particularly in precancerous stages such as intestinal metaplasia or early carcinoma. A residual risk persisted, likely due to chronic inflammation, microbiome changes, or genetic predisposition. Early diagnosis and eradication of H. pylori can reduce the risk of gastric cancer, particularly in high-risk regions. Combining eradication therapy with surveillance and microbiome restoration programs may provide the greatest benefit at a national level.

Phytochemical Analysis of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Nymphaea lotus and the Possible Mechanism of Its Anti-inflammatory Activity Using Rats

Olayemi K. Wakeel — 2025-08-22

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism triggered by harmful stimuli, including tissue damage and pathogenic infections. Nymphaea lotus, a medicinal plant indigenous to tropical Africa and belonging to the Nymphaeaceae family, has been traditionally employed in African folk medicine to treat various ailments, including inflammatory disorders. This study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanol leaf extract of Nymphaea lotus (ELENL), providing a scientific basis for its traditional use. Standard methods were used for the analysis of the phytochemical composition of the ELENL.The anti-inflammatory effect of ELENL was assessed using egg albumin-, Carrageenan-, and Formalin-induced inflammation models in an in vivo assay. For the inflammatory studies, rats were divided into five groups (n=6 per group): Group 1 (control): received normal saline (10 ml/kg), Groups 2-4: received ELENL at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg, respectively. Group 5 (standard): received diclofenac (10 mg/kg) For mechanism of action studies, rats were assigned to three groups (n=6): Group 1 received either 0.01 μg/ml Prostaglandin E2 or 5% w/v Arachidonic acid; Groups 2 and 3 received ELENL at 400 and 800 mg/kg, respectively. The phytochemical analysis of the leaf extract of Nymphaea lotus revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and glycosides. Dose-dependent inhibition of carrageenan- and formalin-induced paw edema was observed, indicating significant anti-inflammatory activity. Egg albumin-induced oedema was significantly inhibited (p < 0.05) by 65.9% at 800 mg/kg. The extract significantly reduced prostaglandin E2-induced paw edema (44.5% at 400 mg/kg and 72.5% at 800 mg/kg) and inhibited paw edema by 69.8%. The findings of this study show that the ethanol leaf extract of Nymphaea lotus has notable anti-inflammatory properties. The results of this studies indicate that the extract exerts a dual action, effectively inhibiting both pathways of arachidonic acid metabolites.

Analyzing Heavy Metals and Minerals in Methanolic Leaves, Stem, and Root Extracts of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Cochlospermum tintorium, and Erythrina senegalensis: Exploring the Public Health Implications

TijwunTweinpu Luka — 2025-08-25

This study investigated the distribution of heavy metals and mineral elements in the methanolic extracts of leaves, roots, and stems of Bryophyllum pinnatum, Cochlospermum tintorium, and Erythrina senegalensis in Takum, Taraba State. The concentrations of these elements were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy, after collection, identification, shade drying, and extraction using methanol. Cochlospermum tintorium exhibited varying concentrations of heavy metals, with the leaf having the highest chromium content (0.15mg/kg) and the lowest lead concentration (0.07mg/kg). Bryophyllum pinnatum had elevated levels of cadmium and chromium in the leaf (0.05mg/kg) and stem bark (0.42mg/kg), respectively. Erythrina senegalensis had high cadmium concentration in the leaf (0.19mg/kg) and elevated lead levels in the stem bark (0.11mg/kg). Mineral element distribution in Cochlospermum tintorium revealed high potassium concentrations in all plant parts, with the root having the highest (187.98mg/kg). Bryophyllum pinnatum exhibited the highest potassium concentration in the leaf (168.18mg/kg), while Erythrina senegalensis showed the highest concentration in the leaf (182.73mg/kg). Calcium concentrations were high in the roots of Cochlospermum tintorium (83.33mg/kg). Potassium levels were within the safety standards set by the World Health Organization. A comparative analysis of heavy metals revealed that all samples complied with WHO permissible limits, except for lead, which slightly exceeded the limit in the stem bark of Bryophyllum pinnatum. Mineral elements such as calcium and potassium were well distributed in all plant parts. The study showed that heavy metals and mineral elements were within permissible limits, thus supporting their prolonged use in traditional medicine.

Antidiabetic Potential of GlucoGuard, a Polyherbal Formulation in Type 2 Diabetes Management

Enema Onojah John — 2025-08-28

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) affects over 500 million adults worldwide, yet current pharmacotherapies often provide only partial glycemic control and may cause adverse effects. Polyherbal formulations can offer complementary benefits through synergistic mechanisms and reduced toxicity. This study investigated the antidiabetic potential of GlucoGuard, a polyherbal aqueous extract containing Hunteria umbellata, Terminalia catappa, Zingiber officinale, and Beta vulgaris (3:1:1:1), in nicotinamide-streptozotocin-induced diabetic Wistar rats. Male rats (190–200 g) were randomly selected and divided into six groups (n = 6): normal control, diabetic control, three GlucoGuard-treated groups (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg), and a metformin-treated group (200 mg/kg). Acute toxicity testing showed no mortality or adverse effects up to 4,000 mg/kg. Oral treatment for 28 days significantly reduced fasting blood glucose in all GlucoGuard groups (p < 0.05), with the 200 and 400 mg/kg doses lowering levels to 92.1 ± 2.0 and 89.6 ± 1.8 mg/dL, comparable to metformin (90.3 ± 1.8 mg/dL). Higher doses also increased plasma insulin from diabetic baseline values, significantly mitigated weight loss, improved HbA1c, and ameliorated markers of renal function and protein metabolism towards normal levels. Hepatic enzyme assays revealed increased hexokinase activity and decreased glucose-6-phosphatase and fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase, indicating enhanced glycolysis and suppressed gluconeogenesis. These results suggest GlucoGuard provides dose-dependent, multi-mechanistic antidiabetic effects comparable to metformin, supporting its further evaluation as a safe, plant-based therapeutic candidate for T2DM.

Traditional Cosmeceutical and Therapeutic Uses of Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) in the Maritime Region of Togo

Mlatovi DEGBE — 2025-09-02

Introduction: Shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa), revered as "women's gold," is a vital socio-economic and cultural resource in Togo. However, the associated traditional knowledge, transmitted orally, is poorly documented and threatened by urbanization and ecological pressures. This study documents and analyzes the traditional cosmeceutical and therapeutic applications of shea butter in Togo's Maritime region to preserve this intangible heritage and explore its potential for sustainable development.

Materials and Methods: An ethnobotanical survey was conducted from September to November 2024, involving semi-structured interviews with 210 women (resellers, users, beauticians) across eight prefectures. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and citation frequency calculations. A targeted literature review was performed to identify articles that explain the therapeutic and cosmetological mechanisms of our research finding.

Results: Results highlight a dual function: cosmetic, dominated by skin hydration (92.9% of citations), and therapeutic, led by the relief of muscular and joint pain (85.6%). The investigation also documented the medicinal uses of the tree's bark, leaves, and roots, confirming a holistic ethnobotanical knowledge. By corroborating these traditional cosmetic and therapeutic practices with scientific literature, the study validates their biochemical basis, particularly the anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties of the butter's rich unsaponifiable fraction.

Conclusion: By comparing this traditional knowledge with scientific literature, the study validates the biochemical basis of these ancestral practices, particularly the anti-inflammatory and regenerative role of the butter's rich unsaponifiable fraction. While insightful, the study's qualitative design and snowball sampling limit the generalizability of the findings. The study underscores the necessity of preserving this threatened heritage and promoting its sustainable development through value chains that respect local knowledge.

Chemical Composition and In vitro Antioxidant Studies on Annona Muricata Fruit

Mosimabale M. M — 2025-09-06

The objective of this study was to examine the nutritional composition, conduct a proximate analysis, identify phytochemical constituents, and assess the in vitro antioxidant activities of Annona muricata flesh, seed, and bark, with the intention of highlighting their potential as alternative food sources. Phytochemical screening was performed utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods, alongside the assessment of proximate parameters through quantitative estimation. The scavenging effect of Annona muricata flesh, seed, and bark was assessed on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing potential, and nitric oxide scavenging radical. The quantitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides, tannins, total phenols, saponins, and flavonoids. The proximate analysis of the flesh, seed, and bark revealed that the seed demonstrated elevated percentages of moisture content, protein, crude fat, ash content, crude fiber, and carbohydrates in comparison to the flesh. Research indicates that the seed exhibits elevated levels of antioxidants and flavonoid compounds in comparison to the flesh and bark. The findings of the study indicate that soursop is a notable source of nutrition and a variety of phytochemicals. The methanol fractions derived from the bark, flesh, and seed of Annona muricata were analyzed through GC-MS, resulting in the identification of 134 phytochemicals. As a result, the ethnobotanical viewpoint concerning the beneficial properties of Annona muricata flesh, seed, and bark can be validated, establishing it as an important source of nutrition and medicinal significance.

Neuroprotective Effects of Piper methysticum against Phenytoin-Induced Cognitive Impairment in Mice

Olayemi K. Wakeel — 2025-09-06

Cognitive impairments are a common comorbidity in epileptic patients, resulting from both the underlying neurological disorder and antiepileptic medication. Phenytoin, a widely prescribed anticonvulsant, has been shown to negatively impact cognitive function.

This investigation aims to assess the efficacy of methanol root extract of Piper methysticum (MREPM) in mitigating phenytoin-induced cognitive impairments in a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) kindled mouse model.

The MREPM extract was evaluated in vivo, where kindled mice received post-treatment with phenytoin (40 mg/kg, p.o.) alone or in combination with MREPM extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg (p.o.) for 14 days. Seizure severity score and cognitive functions were accessed using (a) PTZ kindling induction and (b) passive-avoidance (PA) task.

Treatment with phenytoin per se and along with MREPM showed significant reduction in seizure severity score as compared to vehicle control. Administration of phenytoin (40 mg/kg, p.o.) for 14 days significantly impaired cognitive performance in the passive avoidance (PA) task. Co-administration of MREPM extract (100 mg/kg for 7 days) with phenytoin during the second week of treatment significantly mitigated Phenytoin (PHT)-induced cognitive impairment (1.92±0.03 and .48±0.05) compare with control (5.34±0.12 and 4.81±0.21) at 7^th and 14^th week, respectively. The results demonstrated that MREPM improved memory acquisition and retention, while preserving the anticonvulsant activity of phenytoin.

The results of this study indicate that the combination of MREPM with phenytoin leads to a decrease in seizure severity and an improvement in cognitive function in mice kindled with PTZ, indicating a potential therapeutic benefit of MREPM in mitigating PHT-associated cognitive impairment.

Effects of Tetrapleura tetraptera (Aidan Fruit) on Uterine Weight and Reproductive Hormones in Postpartum Wistar Rats

Godson K.P — 2025-09-09

Tetrapleura Tetraptera (TTE), commonly known as Aidan is a medicinal and nutritional plant distributed in the lowland forests of tropical. Despite its traditional usage to enhance breast milk production and support uterine recovery after delivery, its effect on a postpartum uterus weight and female reproductive hormones is scantly investigated. This study was therefore aimed at investigating the effects of Tetrapleura tetraptera extract on the female reproductive hormones and uterus of the postpartum Wistar rats. This study adopted an experimental study design. 25 female wistar rats and 8 male rats weighing 180-200g and 190-230g respectively were used for the study. The rats were randomly divided into 5 groups (A, B, C, D and E). Group A is made up of 5 female rats only while groups B, C D and E had 7 rats each (5 females and 2 males). Pregnancy confirmed that mating was successful. Group A is Virgin control, Group B is postpartum control while Groups C, D, and E are the treatment groups administered Aidan fruit extract for 7, 14 and 21 days respectively and subsequently sacrificed after delivery. Hormone (FSH, Estrogen and Progesterone) assay was done using the ELISA method, and statistical analysis was carried out using ANOVA at 95% confidence interval and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. This study observed that the extract of Tetrapleura tetraptera increased uterine weight and caused a mild, short-lasting reduction in serum estrogen, with no significant effect on FSH and progesterone. These preliminary findings suggest possible modulatory effects on reproductive hormones, but further studies, including fertility outcome assessments, are needed before definitive conclusions can be drawn.

Occupational Prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Textile Industry Workers

Ansuman Singh — 2025-09-12

Background: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common neuropathy caused by median nerve compression in the wrist, often linked to repetitive hand and wrist movements. Textile workers are especially at risk due to prolonged manual tasks and faulty postures. CTS can cause pain, numbness, and functional impairment, impacting productivity and quality of life.

Purpose: This study aims to determine the prevalence of CTS among textile workers in and investigate how it relates to gender, work experience, hand dominance, and job functions.

Methods and Materials: The study was conducted among the textile workers in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ) was used to evaluate CTS symptoms in a study of 370 employees. Participants were considered CTS-positive if their Symptom Severity Score (SSS) was 3.0 or higher. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, and chi-square tests analysed associations between CTS status and demographic variables, with significance at p < 0.05. A 95% confidence interval was used to express prevalence estimates.

Results: The findings indicated that 25.4% of workers had CTS, highlighting a significant burden in the workforce. More common in males, those with 31–40 years of experience, and specific roles like trimmers and fabric inspectors, none of these correlations were statistically significant. Chi-square tests showed that gender, experience, hand dominance, and occupational role did not independently predict CTS.

Conclusions: Repetitive hand actions remain a concern, even without statistically significant data. These findings emphasize the importance of early screening, workplace ergonomics, and health education to prevent and manage CTS among textile workers, enhancing their well-being and productivity.

The Effect of Cannabis and Methamphetamine on Liver and Kidney Function in Adult Male Wistar Rats: A Comparative Study

Ezeokafor Nonso Emmanuel — 2025-10-06

Cannabis and methamphetamine are widely abused substances with potential harmful effects on various organs, including the liver and kidneys. An initial step in detecting liver or kidney damage is to carry out a blood test to determine the level of certain liver enzymes or the level of urea, creatinine and uric acid in the blood. This study was aimed at investigating the effects of cannabis and methamphetamine on the liver and kidneys of adult male Wistar rats. Twenty-five male rats were randomly divided into five groups of five rats each. Group A served as the control group while groups two, three, four and five served as the test groups. Group A received normal laboratory chow and water, group B received only methamphetamine (10mg/kg), group C received only cannabis (300mg/kg), group D received methamphetamine (10mg/kg) and cannabis (300mg/kg), group E received methamphetamine (10mg/kg) and cannabis (600mg/kg). The administration period lasted for 21days. At the end of the administration, the animals were anaesthetized using chloroform, sacrificed, and blood samples were collected and properly labelled. Statistical analysis was determined using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the results obtained from the laboratory investigations were expressed as mean±SEM, while values of p≤0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. The results showed the hepatoprotective and nephroprotective effects of Cannabis sativa on Methamphetamine induced liver and kidney damage. Result revealed an increase in groups B, D, and E; group C had a decrease compared to group A, which had no significant difference. However, group C had a decrease and groups D and E had an increase compared to group B, which had no significant difference in the relative liver weight. These findings suggest that Cannabis sativa may serve as a therapeutic agent to reduce methamphetamine induced liver and kidney damage.

Leveraging AI-Driven Simulation Training to Mitigate Defensive Medicine in Clinical Practice

Kimberly Morton Cuthrell — 2025-09-03

Defensive medicine remains widespread and expensive across global healthcare systems. The evolving healthcare landscape and defensive medicine practices are undergoing significant transformations with groundbreaking implementations of artificial intelligence (AI). Defensive medicine involves ordering tests, procedures, treatment, visits, or avoiding high-risk patients to reduce legal exposure and vulnerability, which increases healthcare costs, compromises quality standards, increases administrative processes, and lowers patient care. Even in the aftermath of tort reform and various legislative initiatives, several physicians continue to partake in defensive medicine practices, driven by fear of lawsuits and professional scrutiny. While emerging AI technologies encompass possibilities and obstacles that can complicate clinical decision-making practices, leveraging data-driven stimulated-based training and evidence-based practices may present promising outcomes that boosts clinical confidence, reduces fear, improves patient engagement, optimizes care delivery, and enables physicians to implement real-world clinical scenarios in a safe and controlled environment to minimize healthcare errors amd expenses, making it possible to focus more on patient-centered care instead of healthcare burdens. This article focuses on the practicality of how AI-powered simulation-based training may provide opportunities for personalized feedback, adjustment of settings in real-time based on performance measures, and ascertain defensive tendencies by analyzing patterns, including pinpointing early detections of high-risk situations that could result in medical and legal ramifications.

Safe and Effective Use of Herbal Medicinal Products: A Model of Interdependent Militating Factors

Adepoju Tunde Joseph OGUNKUNLE — 2025-09-10

Background: The growing reliance on herbal medicine carries inherent risks, as concerns over the safety and efficacy of these products persist. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to identify the factors that compromise the safe and effective use of herbal medicinal products and to outline the multidirectional relationships among these variables, with a view to highlighting critical areas for intervention in the interest of public health.

Methodology: Following an extensive review of literature in reputable indexing outlets including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science and some WHO monographs, this paper identifies and explores a spectrum of factors that compromise the safe and effective use of herbal medicine. Free of mutual exclusivity clause, ten key factors were isolated, classified into seven primary (namely: environment ENV, herb misidentification HMI, adulteration HAD, misrepresentation HMR, contamination CON, plant morphological confusion PMC, and nomenclatural ambiguity PNA) and three secondary (namely: misuse/abuse of herbal medicine HMM, unsafe practices USP, and false claims FCL) categories on the one hand, and then seven solitary (namely: HMI, HAD, HMR, CON, HMM, PMC, and PNA) and three compound factors (i.e. ENV, USP, and FCL) on the other hand. Following a heuristic analytical approach, and with due cognizance to their relationships, the isolated factors were modeled to reflect their web of interdependence.

Results: The study highlights HMR and HMM as core impediments, often linked to mislabeling, lack of standardization, and regulatory lapses. A visual model is proposed to illustrate how these factors interact in a multidirectional network of influence, drawing attention to critical nodes requiring intervention.

Conclusion: The proposed model not only informs regulatory and quality assurance practices but also serves as an expository and preventive tool to mitigate health risks associated with use of herbal medicine. By addressing the multifactorial dynamics involved, this work contributes to safer, more effective herbal therapeutic practices and enhanced public health outcomes.

From Body Systems to Population Health: The Foundational Role of Anatomy in Public Health

Nicholas Asiwe — 2025-08-20

The advancements in human anatomy have extended the scope of human anatomy beyond academic study and clinical medicine, but rather provide fundamental knowledge essential for various disciplines such as medicine and surgery for precision in surgical procedures, accurate diagnosis, and clinical interventions. This study aimed to explore and emphasize the critical role of human anatomy in shaping effective public health practices, particularly in disease monitoring, maternal care, health education, and policy development. Anatomical knowledge enables public health professionals to link symptoms to organ systems, interpret autopsy findings, and respond swiftly during disease outbreaks such as COVID-19, cholera, and Ebola. It supports accurate screenings, emergency triage, and safe interventions like vaccinations and contraceptives. Anatomy also enhances health education by translating complex body functions into relatable messages that improve health literacy and reduce stigma. In research and policy, anatomical data informs the design of inclusive health systems and interventions. Despite its importance, challenges such as limited anatomical training, cultural resistance, and lack of interdisciplinary collaboration hinder its full application. Integrating anatomy more fully into public health education, practice, and research, especially through digital tools and culturally sensitive outreach, can enhance health outcomes, equity, and preparedness for evolving global health challenges. By addressing the existing gaps, such as limited interdisciplinary collaboration and cultural barriers and embracing technological innovations like 3D models and personalized health data, the synergy between public health and anatomy can grow stronger.

Role of Ahara (Scheduled Diet) and Udvarthana with Shaileyadi Churna in Sthoulya: A Case Study

Harish Deshpande — 2025-09-02

Sthoulya is considered among Ashtaninditya Purusha where a person body weight is increased rapidly within short duration. In Ayurveda, the global problem of obesity has been mentioned to as Sthoulya or Medhoroga in classical texts by the majority of Acharyas under the moniker of Santarpanottha Vikara. An individual having greatness and massiveness of the body because of broad development particularly in Udaradi area is named as “Sthoola” and this Bhava (province) of Sthoolata is called as “Sthoulya”. Sthoulya has been characterized as an individual who by virtue of the excessive increment of fat and tissue is recognized with pendulous rear end, tummy and bosoms and whose expanded mass isn’t matched by a comparing expansion in energy. Ahara plays an important part in Swasthya Rakshana due to its pathya aspect, and pathya can become Ayatana (reason or Nidana) for both health and disease. Despite the reality is oushadha has a therapeutic impact, Oushadhamatra (Quantity of Medicine) is always lesser than AharaMatra (Quantity of Food).

Aims & Objectives: To assess the efficacy of Scheduled diet and Udvarthana in Sthoulya.

Setting: Swasthavritta &Yoga OPD of R.P. Karadi Hospital ILKAL.

Method: Udvarthana and Scheduled diet was advised, assessed before and after treatment, advised for follow up.

Discussion: The present study was undertaken to explain the concept of sthoulya (Obesity) and then to formulate proper scheduled diet and udvarthana.

Conclusion: In the present study, the scheduled diet and udvarthana procedure are designed to effectively reduce the weight, BMI and anthropometric measurements.