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Journal of the American Association of... Aug 2023Psyllium is a natural, predominantly soluble fiber that forms a viscous gel when hydrated and is not digested or fermented. In the small intestine, psyllium gel... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Psyllium is a natural, predominantly soluble fiber that forms a viscous gel when hydrated and is not digested or fermented. In the small intestine, psyllium gel increases chyme viscosity, slowing the degradation and absorption of nutrients. Psyllium has a significant effect in patients with metabolic syndrome and type-2 diabetes on glycemic control, while lowering serum cholesterol in hypercholesterolemic patients. Some randomized controlled studies have shown that psyllium also facilitates weight loss in overweight and obese participants.
OBJECTIVES
A comprehensive review and meta-analysis assessing psyllium's impact on body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference in overweight and obese participants.
DATA SOURCES
A comprehensive search was performed (Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Database) through March 21, 2022, using search terms to identify randomized, controlled, clinical studies designed to assess weight loss in overweight and obese participants over at least 2 months. Data were analyzed using the inverse variance method with random effects models.
CONCLUSIONS
Six studies meeting inclusion criteria were identified (total n = 354). The meta-analysis showed that psyllium, dosed just before meals (mean dose 10.8 g/day, mean duration 4.8 months), was effective for decreasing body weight (MD = -2.1 kg [95% confidence interval [CI]: -2.6 to -1.6]; p < .001), BMI (MD = -0.8 kg/m 2 [95% CI: -1.0 to -0.6]; p < .001) and waist circumference (MD = -2.2 cm [95% CI: -2.9 to -1.4]; p < .001) in overweight and obese populations.
IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE
Gel-forming nonfermented psyllium fiber, dosed just before meals, is effective in facilitating weight loss in overweight and obese participants.
Topics: Humans; Body Weight; Obesity; Overweight; Psyllium; Weight Loss
PubMed: 37163454
DOI: 10.1097/JXX.0000000000000882 -
Current Developments in Nutrition Oct 2023Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant that is used for medicinal purposes. Ingestion of CBD is claimed to address several... (Review)
Review
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from the cannabis plant that is used for medicinal purposes. Ingestion of CBD is claimed to address several pathologies, including gastrointestinal disorders, although limited evidence has been generated thus far to substantiate many of its health claims. Nevertheless, CBD usage as an over-the-counter treatment for gastrointestinal disorders is likely to expand in response to increasing commercial availability, permissive legal status, and acceptance by consumers. This systematic review critically evaluates the knowledge boundaries of the published research on CBD, intestinal motility, and intestinal motility disorders. Research on CBD and intestinal motility is currently limited but does support the safety and efficacy of CBD for several therapeutic applications, including seizure disorders, inflammatory responses, and upper gastrointestinal dysfunction (i.e., nausea and vomiting). CBD, therefore, may have therapeutic potential for addressing functional gastrointestinal disorders. The results of this review show promising and preclinical data supporting a role of CBD in intestinal motility. This includes improved gastrointestinal-related outcomes in murine models of colitis. These studies, however, vary by dose, delivery method, and CBD-extract composition. Clinical trials have yet to find a conclusive benefit of CBD on intestinal motility disorders, but these trials have been limited in scope. In addition, critical factors such as CBD dosing parameters have not yet been established. Further research will establish the efficacy of CBD in applications to address intestinal motility.
PubMed: 37786751
DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2023.101972 -
Alternative Therapies in Health and... Sep 2023Turmeric is a well-known herb that has been used in many traditional medicinal systems since ancient times. Turmeric roots contain hydrophobic polyphenols called... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
CONTEXT
Turmeric is a well-known herb that has been used in many traditional medicinal systems since ancient times. Turmeric roots contain hydrophobic polyphenols called curcuminoids, which have proven anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and are shown to be beneficial for the management of musculoskeletal health. Various products containing curcumin or turmeric extract are commercially available.
OBJECTIVE
This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) is intended to evaluate the effective dose, safety, and efficacy of commercial turmeric extract and curcumin supplements in musculoskeletal health.
DESIGN
The research team performed a systematic literature search of PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases and conducted a meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines.
SETTING
Authors from India and USA contributed to this systematic review and meta-analysis.
RESULTS
The research team analyzed 21 prospective, randomized clinical studies, of which seven studies were focused on skeletal muscle health and fourteen on joint health. Statistical heterogeneity was established based on the results of heterogeneity analysis of a Chi-square (χ2) value for Cochran's Q statistic of 29.3765 for musculoskeletal and 3666.80 for joint health studies (P < .0001 for both analyses). Therefore, the random effects model was used. The χ2 value of the random effects model was 216.5545 for skeletal muscle health studies and 1400.65 for joint health studies, which was statistically significant with P < .0001 for both analyses.
CONCLUSIONS
Turmeric extract and curcumin supplements can be effective adjuvants for the management of musculoskeletal health, with a low incidence of AEs. The water-dispersible turmeric extract, WDTE60N, at a dose of 250 mg per day, was found to be more effective than other curcumin products. However, the studies included in the analysis were conducted using diverse doses and treatment durations. Further evaluation using comparisons in future clinical trials can establish the appropriate effective dose of curcumin supplements for the overall maintenance of musculoskeletal health.
Topics: Humans; Curcumin; Curcuma; Plant Extracts; Anti-Inflammatory Agents
PubMed: 37574203
DOI: No ID Found -
International Journal of Cosmetic... Aug 2023Sweating is the human body's thermoregulation system but also results in unpleasant body odour which can diminish the self-confidence of people. There has been continued... (Review)
Review
Sweating is the human body's thermoregulation system but also results in unpleasant body odour which can diminish the self-confidence of people. There has been continued research in finding solutions to reduce both sweating and body odour. Sweating is a result of increased sweat flow and malodour results from certain bacteria and ecological factors such as eating habits. Research on deodorant development focuses on inhibiting the growth of malodour-forming bacteria using antimicrobial agents, whereas research on antiperspirant synthesis focuses on technologies reducing the sweat flow, which not only reduces body odour but also improves people's appearance. Antiperspirant's technology is based on the use of aluminium salts which can form a gel plug at sweat pores, obstructing the sweat fluid from arising onto the skin surface. In this paper, we perform a systematic review on the recent progress in the development of novel antiperspirant and deodorant active ingredients that are alcohol-free, paraben-free, and naturally derived. Several studies have been reported on the alternative class of actives that can potentially be used for antiperspirant and body odour treatment including deodorizing fabric, bacterial, and plant extracts. However, a significant challenge is to understand how the gel-plugs of antiperspirant actives are formed in sweat pores and how to deliver long-lasting antiperspirant and deodorant benefits.
Topics: Humans; Antiperspirants; Deodorants; Body Odor; Sweating; Sweat Glands
PubMed: 36896776
DOI: 10.1111/ics.12852 -
La Clinica Terapeutica 2023The legume tree known as carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is indigenous to the Mediterranean area and over the centuries its pods had been traditionally used mostly as... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
The legume tree known as carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) is indigenous to the Mediterranean area and over the centuries its pods had been traditionally used mostly as animal feed. However, it has gained great attention in human nutrition due to the molecular compounds it contains, which could offer many potential health benefits: for example, carob is renowned for its high content of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, in traditional medicine it is credited with the ability to control glucose metabolism and gut microbiome. Modern science has also extensively acknowledged the numerous health advantages deriving from its consumption, including its anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Due to its abundant contents of pectin, gums, and polyphenols (such as pinitol), carob has garnered significant attention as a well-researched plant with remarkable therapeutic properties. Notably, carob is extensively used in the production of semi-finished pastry products, particularly in ice cream and other creams (especially as a substitute for cocoa/chocolate): these applications indeed facilitate the exploration of its positive effects on glucose metabolism. Our study aimed at examining the effects of carob extract on intestinal microbiota and glucose metabolism. In this review, we conducted a thorough examination, comprising in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials to appraise the consequences on human health of polyphenols and pectin from different carob species, including recently discovered ones with high polyphenol contents. Our goal was to learn more about the mechanisms through which carob extract can support a balanced gut flora and improve one's glucose metabolism. These results could influence the creation of novel functional foods and dietary supplements, to help with the management and prevention of chronic illnesses like diabetes and obesity.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Gastrointestinal Microbiome; Polyphenols; Glucose; Fabaceae; Pectins
PubMed: 37994761
DOI: 10.7417/CT.2023.2484 -
Nutrients Dec 2023Withania somnifera (WS), a popular medicinal plant of the Solanaceae family, contains active ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Withania somnifera (WS), a popular medicinal plant of the Solanaceae family, contains active ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-stress activities. However, its precise mechanisms of action and optimal use as a supplement are not yet fully understood. The objective of this systematic review is to assess the impact of WS supplementation on cortisol levels in stressed humans by analyzing clinical trials conducted prior to May 2023.
METHODS
The assessment was carried out following the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) by exploring the databases of EMBASE, PubMed, Google Scholar, CENTRAL, and Scopus.
RESULTS
Of the 4788 articles identified, only 9 studies met the selection criteria. The selected studies varied in terms of design, results, formulations, dosages, and treatment duration (30-112 days), and involved subjects with varying degrees of stress. WS supplementation decreases cortisol secretion with no significant adverse effects. Nonetheless, none of the studies evaluated the potential impact of cortisol reduction on adrenal function and long-term effects.
CONCLUSIONS
Brief-term supplementation with WS appears to have a stress-reducing effect in stressed individuals. However, since the long-term effects of WS supplementation are not yet fully understood, WS supplements should be used under medical supervision.
Topics: Humans; Plant Extracts; Withania; Hydrocortisone; Plants, Medicinal; Antioxidants
PubMed: 38140274
DOI: 10.3390/nu15245015 -
Cureus Sep 2023is traditionally used to prevent and treat some diseases such as liver disorders, hypertension, insomnia, diabetes, and cancer. spore extracts are also reported to... (Review)
Review
is traditionally used to prevent and treat some diseases such as liver disorders, hypertension, insomnia, diabetes, and cancer. spore extracts are also reported to share similar bioactivities as extracts from its other parts. However, there is no systematic review that elucidates its pharmacological effect. Our aim is to comprehensively summarise current evidence of spore extracts to clarify its benefits to be applied in further studies. We searched five primary databases: PubMed, Virtual Health Library (VHL), Global Health Library (GHL), System for Information on Grey Literature in Europe (SIGLE), and Google Scholar on September 13, 2021. Articles were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. A manual search was applied to find more relevant articles. Ninety studies that reported the pharmacological effects and/or safety of spores were included in this review. The review found that spore extracts showed quite similar effects as other parts of this medicinal plant including anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects, and immunomodulation. sporoderm-broken extract demonstrated higher efficiency than unbroken spore extract. extracts also showed their effects on some genes responsible for the body's metabolism, which implied the benefits in metabolic diseases. The safety of should be investigated in depth as high doses of the extract could increase levels of cancer antigen (CA)72-4, despite no harmful effect shown on body organs. Generally, there is a lot of potential in the studies of compounds with pharmacological effects and new treatments. Sporoderm breaking technique could contribute to the production of extracts with more effective prevention and treatment of diseases. High doses of spore extract should be used with caution as there was a concern about the increase in CA.
PubMed: 37790044
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.44574 -
PloS One 2023In this study, we aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for vocal nodules, concerning qualitive overall efficacy and quantitative improvement on quality... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
In this study, we aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for vocal nodules, concerning qualitive overall efficacy and quantitative improvement on quality of voice. Four English and four Chinese databases were searched up to December 10th, 2022. Risk of bias among the included trials were evaluated by the Cochrane ROB tool. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses were conducted based on the Cochrane systematic review method by using RevMan 5.4 Software, and trial sequential analyses were performed by TSA 0.9. Meta-influence analyses, subgroup-analyses, meta-regression, and evaluation of publication bias were performed for exploration of heterogeneity by Stata V.14. Quality of the results was accessed through the GRADE-pro GDT. Cluster analyses and correlation coefficient were performed by R 4.1.3. Finally, 15 trials involving 1,888 participants were included. Results showed that compared with western medicine alone or Chinese herbal medicine alone, acupuncture alone yielded significantly (p<0.05) higher clinical effective rate and more improvement on scores of voice analyses. However, reduction on scores of grade, roughness, and breathiness and voice handicap index during follow-ups, and results of clinical effective rate suggested that acupuncture was inferior to voice training. In addition, meta-regression and sub-group analyses firstly revealed advanced efficacies of acupuncture when performed with local and remote acupoints, compared with local acupoints only. Acupuncture specified adverse event was denied in six trials while it was not mentioned in other nine trials. Results of cluster analyses and correlation coefficient showed that Kai yin yi hao and He gu (LI-4) were the most frequently applied matching-acupoints in trials. In conclusion, compared with western medicine (level of evidence: low ⨁⨁◯◯, GRADE C) and Chinese herbal medicine (level of evidence: moderate ⨁⨁⨁◯, GRADE B), acupuncture is safe and of better efficacy for patients with vocal nodules, while there is also need for RCTs with improvements on designing and interventions in experimental and controls.
Topics: Male; Humans; Drugs, Chinese Herbal; Acupuncture Therapy; Treatment Outcome; Acupuncture Points; Publication Bias
PubMed: 37922255
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288252 -
Ayahuasca and Dimethyltryptamine Adverse Events and Toxicity Analysis: A Systematic Thematic Review.International Journal of Toxicology 2024The objective of this paper is to conduct a systematic thematic review of adverse events, safety, and toxicity of traditional ayahuasca plant preparations and its main... (Review)
Review
The objective of this paper is to conduct a systematic thematic review of adverse events, safety, and toxicity of traditional ayahuasca plant preparations and its main psychoactive alkaloids (dimethyltryptamine [DMT], harmine, harmaline, and tetrahydroharmine), including discussing clinical considerations (within clinical trials or approved settings). A systematic literature search of preclinical, clinical, epidemiological, and pharmacovigilance data (as well as pertinent reviews and case studies) was conducted for articles using the electronic databases of PubMed and Web of Science (to 6 July 2023) and PsycINFO, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Embase (to 21 September 2022) and included articles in English in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, reference lists were searched. Due to the breadth of the area covered, we presented the relevant data in a thematic format. Our searches revealed 78 relevant articles. Data showed that ayahuasca or DMT is generally safe; however, some adverse human events have been reported. Animal models using higher doses of ayahuasca have shown abortifacient and teratogenic effects. Isolated harmala alkaloid studies have also revealed evidence of potential toxicity at higher doses, which may increase with co-administration with certain medications. Harmaline revealed the most issues in preclinical models. Nevertheless, animal models involving higher-dose synthetic isolates may not necessarily be able to be extrapolated to human use of therapeutic doses of plant-based extracts. Serious adverse effects are rarely reported within healthy populations, indicating an acceptable safety profile for the traditional use of ayahuasca and DMT in controlled settings. Further randomized, controlled trials with judicious blinding, larger samples, and longer duration are needed.
Topics: Banisteriopsis; Humans; N,N-Dimethyltryptamine; Animals; Plant Extracts; Harmine; Harmaline
PubMed: 38363085
DOI: 10.1177/10915818241230916 -
Journal of Education and Health... 2023Medicinal plants and herbal drugs are being used increasingly as part of primary health care in most parts of the world. As important adjunctive and alternative... (Review)
Review
Medicinal plants and herbal drugs are being used increasingly as part of primary health care in most parts of the world. As important adjunctive and alternative treatments for oral health care, herbal products' use may continue to increase and become more widespread. The objective of this study is to present a comprehensive systematic review of the current published literature on the effectiveness of medicinal plants and herbal products employed to improve oral health in adolescents with a health promotion approach. The systematic review was conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The keywords "herbal medicine," "herbal extract," "herbal supplements," "plant extract," "natural drug," "pulpitis," "dental caries," "oral viral diseases," and "abscess" were used in combination with the Boolean operators OR and AND. PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched. Quality assessment of the included studies was performed using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The search yielded 49 original research studies. A total of 22 studies had low or unclear risk bias. The geographical distribution of included studies was primarily concentrated on western countries. Overall, studies reported herbal product users' age, ranging from young adults aged 18 years to elderly people aged 75 years or older. Most studies reported multiple compounds, including herbal drugs and herbal extracts. Chamomile and Aloe vera were the most frequently reported herbal compounds. The most commonly described herbal products to treat oral diseases were gels, mouth rinses, and pastes. The studies included a range of people with oral diseases, including periodontal and gingival diseases, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, oral lichen planus, and oral candidiasis. Herbal product interventions were found to be effective and safe alternatives for oral health care. One of the most important goals of the World Health Organization (until 2015) is the oral health index, so it is important that dental services be followed up more seriously. Considering the problems in reaching this goal of the World Health Organization in our country, herbal products have the ability to improve clinical oral health outcomes in adolescents. Limited adverse side effects indicate the overall safety of these treatments for a wide range of oral diseases. Therefore, the use of medicinal plants as well as alternative medicine is one of the useful methods in achieving this important goal of public health.
PubMed: 38023092
DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_1297_22