Antivenom activities of some species of andrographis wall
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Antivenom activities of some species of andrographis wall
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:
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S. Balu, C. Alagesaboopathi
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Antivenom activities of some species of andrographis wall
Year: 1995
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study investigates the antivenom activities of alcoholic extracts from three species of Andrographis: A. paniculata, A. alata, and A. lineate, which are perennial herbs in the Acanthaceae family. These plants are prevalent in India and Ceylon and have a rich history of medicinal use, notably A. paniculata, known as Kalmegh, is frequently used as a bitter tonic in treating liver troubles. Traditional medicinal practitioners utilize these herbs for their diverse properties, including anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects, and they are commonly employed in snakebite treatment. This research specifically aims to assess the protective effects of these extracts against haemolysis induced by snake venom.
Inhibition of Hemolysis
The study's results indicate a significant inhibition of in vitro human red blood cell (HRBC) lysis by the extracts of the three Andrographis species. The evaluation, carried out using different concentrations of the extracts (10, 25, 50, 75, and 100 µg/ml), showed that all extracts effectively reduced haemolysis. Notably, A. paniculata displayed the highest antivenom activity, demonstrating an inhibition rate of 67.2% at a concentration of 10 µg/ml. This response is attributed to the extracts� ability to stabilize HRBC membranes, counteracting the haemolytic effects of snake venom, which employs phospholipase A2 to damage cell membranes.
Conclusion
In summary, the findings emphasize the potential antivenom properties of Andrographis species, particularly A. paniculata, against the harmful effects of snake venom. The study highlights the importance of exploring natural products in traditional medicine for therapeutic applications. The substantial inhibition of HRBC lysis observed reveals a promising avenue for further research into the use of Andrographis extracts as a natural antidote to combat snake venom-related injuries, potentially benefiting communities reliant on traditional practices for healthcare.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on Andrographis species?
The study investigates the antivenom activities of alcoholic extracts from three Andrographis species by assessing their ability to inhibit in vitro HRBC membrane lysis induced by snake venom.
Which Andrographis species exhibited the highest antivenom activity?
Among the tested species, Andrographis paniculata showed the maximum antivenom activity, inhibiting 67.2% of hemolysis at a concentration of 10 µg/ml.
What method was used to evaluate the antivenom activity?
The antivenom activity was evaluated using an in vitro assay measuring the inhibition of hemolysis of human red blood corpuscles (HRBC) caused by hypotonic solutions and snake venom.
How were the extracts of Andrographis prepared for testing?
The leaf samples of Andrographis species were dried, powdered, and extracted using 50% ethyl alcohol via soxhlet extraction, followed by evaporation of the solvent and drying in a desiccator.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antivenom activities of some species of andrographis wall�. 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:
In the context of this study, a 'Drug' refers to the extracts derived from the various species of Andrographis, particularly A. paniculata, known for its medicinal benefits. The research investigates its antivenom properties and potential therapeutic effects against snake venom, emphasizing its role in traditional and modern medicine.
2) Activity:
'Activity' in this study denotes the effectiveness of the Andrographis extracts in inhibiting hemolysis of human red blood cells induced by snake venom. The measured activities provide insights into how these extracts can mitigate the harmful effects of snake bites and contribute to the plants' medicinal significance.
3) Blood:
'Blood' is central to the study as the experiments involve human red blood corpuscles (HRBC). The effects of Andrographis extracts on HRBC lysis help in understanding the potential antivenom properties of these plants. Blood analysis is crucial for assessing the safety and efficacy of natural remedies for snake bites.
4) Snake poison (Snake venom):
'Snake poison' refers to the venom produced by snakes, which can cause severe physiological damage, including hemolysis of blood cells. The study focuses on the ability of Andrographis extracts to counteract the effects of snake poison, providing scientific backing for traditional claims associated with these plants in snakebite treatment.
5) Discussion:
'Discussion' is an essential section in the paper where results are interpreted and contextualized within existing literature. This part critically evaluates the findings regarding Andrographis extracts' potential antivenom activities, linking them to mechanisms of action and real-world implications for treatment strategies against snake bites.
6) Medicine:
In this research, 'Medicine' encompasses both traditional and contemporary uses of Andrographis species in treating ailments, including snake bites. The paper discusses the historical context and therapeutic applications of these plants within herbal medicine, affirming their relevance in modern pharmacology and alternative therapies.
7) Science (Scientific):
'Science' underpins the methodology, analysis, and conclusions drawn from this research. The antivenom properties of Andrographis extracts are investigated using rigorous experimental techniques that reflect scientific inquiry, aiming to validate traditional practices through empirical evidence and contribute to the field of natural product research.
8) Bitter:
'Bitter' describes the taste profile of Andrographis paniculata, commonly known as Kalmegh, which is significant in traditional medicine. The bitterness is often associated with its health benefits, particularly in digestive health. Understanding this aspect helps highlight the plant’s therapeutic value in natural remedies and its appeal as a health tonic.
9) Botany:
'Botany' is the branch of biology related to the study of plants, and in this study, it relates to the classification, properties, and utilization of the Andrographis species. The research situates these plants within the field of botany, showcasing their ecological role and their importance in ethnobotanical practices.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Antivenom activities of some species of andrographis wall�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Andrographis paniculata, Traditional medicine, Alcoholic extract, Phospholipase A2, Haemolysis, In vitro assay, Hypotonicity induced HRBC membrane lysis.