Estimation of Potential Availability of Essential Oil in Some Brands of Herbal Teas and Herbal Dietary Supplements

Introduction

The aim of the study was to estimate potential availability of essential oil in some brands of herbal products.

Methods

A comparison was performed on the basis of the essential oil yield in the unprocessed raw materials such as leaves of peppermint and lemon balm and inflorescence of chamomile as well as herbal tea bags and in dietary supplements. The yield of essential oil was determined by distillation. Essential oil was analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS.

Results

It was found that the average potential availability of essential oils in the products such as dietary supplements for the doses recommended by the producers is lower than in the corresponding tea infusions: for peppermint formulations approximately 6-fold lower, for the formulations with lemon balm about 4-fold lower, and for the chamomile preparations about 3-fold lower. It was found that essential oils extracted from herbal teas have a similar chemical profile with characteristic deviations in the amount of individual components, which arise from the origin of the raw material.

Discussion

In contrast to homogenous pharmaceutical herbal mixtures consistent with, the Pharmacopoeia requirements, herbal teas (available in grocery stores) and dietary supplements are often out of control in terms of the yield and composition of the essential oil, which is primarily responsible for the health benefits and aromatic qualities of these products. Analysis of the composition of the dietary supplements showed that they contain on average significantly lower amounts of plant material compared to the herbal teas.     

Use of Herbal Supplements for Overactive Bladder

Anticholinergics, specifically antimuscarinic agents, are the most common medications prescribed for overactive bladder (OAB). The most common side effects of these agents are dry mouth and constipation, although other more concerning effects include changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, or heart rhythm when treatment is initiated. Herbal treatments are an increasingly popular alternative for treating OAB. A 2002 survey of US adults aged ≥ 18 years conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that 74.6% of those with OAB had used some form of complementary and alternative medicine. The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the world’s population presently uses herbal medicine for some aspect of primary health care. Women were more likely than men to use complementary and alternative medicine. The authors review the most commonly used herbal medications for OAB.Key words: Overactive bladder, Herbal medicine, Gosha-jinki-gan, Hachi-mi-jio-gan, Buchu (Barosma betuline), Cleavers (Galium aparine), Cornsilk (Zea mays), Horsetail (Equisetum), Ganoderma lucidum, Resinferatoxin, CapsaicinOveractive bladder (OAB) is defined by the International Continence Society as a syndrome that includes urgency, with or without urge incontinence, frequency, and nocturia. The prevalence of OAB is estimated to range between 9% and 16%, depending on the population studied.^1–3 As symptoms of OAB increase with age, they can negatively impact quality of life (QoL).The cost of treating OAB is estimated to be approximately $12 billion annually in the United States.⁴ This estimate accounts for the direct cost of management, including protective undergarments, bedside commodes, and medical treatment, as well as indirect costs, such as those resulting from urinary tract infections and falls due to urgency and nocturia. There are also additional intangible costs that cannot be estimated such as pain, suffering, and poor QoL.The negative impact on health and the sense of well-being as well as the impairment in the ability to perform activities of daily living, has been well-documented. For example, elderly patients with OAB and subsequent incontinence are more likely to be admitted to nursing homes. Thom and colleagues reported a twofold increased risk of admission to a nursing facility for patients with incontinence.⁵ Urinary incontinence can also lead to anxiety, negative self-image, and isolation.⁴ Other problems associated with OAB include skin ulcerations and urinary tract infections. Nocturia is common with OAB and ranks among the most bothersome of lower urinary tract symptoms.⁶ In addition to sleep interruption and resulting fatigue, patients with nocturia may be more likely to suffer from falls and fractures, which are associated with high mortality in elderly patients. Approximately 33% of elderly people do not survive beyond 1 year after a hip fracture.⁷The impact of OAB was clearly reported in the National Overactive Bladder Evaluation (NOBLE) study.⁸ The NOBLE study represented a computer-assisted telephone interview survey that used health-related QoL (HRQoL) questionnaires to compare continent OAB patients, with incontinent OAB patients, and control groups in a nested case-control fashion. In this study, OAB was associated with lower QoL scores, higher scores on depression, and poorer sleep quality when compared with control subjects.⁸ Note that, although the prevalence of OAB increases with age, it should not be considered a normal consequence of aging.Anticholinergics, specifically antimuscarinic agents, represent the most common medications prescribed for OAB. The most common side effects are dry mouth and constipation.^9,10 Other more concerning side effects include changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, or heart rhythm when treatment is initiated. Additional adverse events (AEs) include memory loss, cognitive impairment, and balance problems. Thus, alternative therapies not involving standard medications and their associated risks are sought by patients to alleviate symptoms of OAB.Herbal treatments represent an increasingly popular alternative for treating OAB. A 2002 survey of US adults aged ≥ 18 years conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated 74.6% of those with OAB had used some form of complementary and alternative medicine. The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the world’s population presently uses herbal medicine for some aspect of primary health care. Women were more likely than men to use complementary and alternative medicine.^10,11 We review the most commonly used herbal medications used for OAB.     

Availability of Essential Elements in Nutrient Supplements Used as Antidiabetic Herbal Formulations

Five brands of antidiabetic herbal formulations as tablets, Diabetex, Divya Madhu Nashini, Jambrushila, Diabeticin, and Madhumeh Nashini, from different pharmacies were analyzed for six minor (Na, K, Ca, Cl, Mg, and P) and 20 trace (As, Ba, Br, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Hg, La, Mn, Rb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Th, V, and Zn) elements by thermal neutron irradiation followed by high-resolution gamma ray spectrometry. Further Ni, Cd, and Pb were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Most elements vary in a narrow range by a factor of 2–4 while a few others vary in a wide range, e.g., Na (0.05–0.67 mg/g), Mn (26.7–250 μg/g), and V (0.26–2.50 μg/g). All the five brands contain K, Cl, Mg, P, and Ca as minor constituents along with mean trace amounts of Cr (2.11 ± 0.67 μg/g), Cu (15.7 ± 7.11 μg/g), Fe (459 ± 171 μg/g), Mn (143 ± 23 μg/g), Se (238 ± 112 ng/g), and V (0.99 ± 0.93 μg/g). Jambrushila is enriched in Na, Ca, Mg, Cl, Fe, Cu, Se, and Zn, essential nutrients responsible for curing diabetes. Dietary intake of Mn, Fe, and Cu are greater than 10% of the recommended dietary allowance, whereas that for Zn and Se is less than 2%. Mean contents of toxic elements (As, Cd, Hg, and Pb) were found below permissible limits except in Jambrushila. Cr and Zn were inversely correlated with r = −0.81, whereas Rb and Cs exhibit linear correlation (r = 0.93) in five brands. C, H, N analysis showed C ∼ 55%, H ∼ 12%, and N ∼ 2% with a total of ∼70% organic matter. However, thermal decomposition studies at 700°C suggest less than 5% nonvolatile metal oxides. Herbal formulations contain minor and trace elements in bioavailable forms that favorably influence glucose tolerance and possibly increase the body’s ability to ameliorate development of diabetes.     

Pathogenic Potential of Saccharomyces Strains Isolated from Dietary Supplements

Saccharomyces cerevisiae plays a beneficial role in health because of its intrinsic nutritional value and bio-functional properties, which is why it is also used as a dietary supplement. However, the perception that S. cerevisiae is harmless has changed due to an increasing number of infections caused by this yeast. Given this scenario, we have tested whether viable strains contained in dietary supplements displayed virulence-associated phenotypic traits that could contribute to virulence in humans. We have also performed an in vivo study of the pathogenic potential of these strains using a murine model of systemic infection by intravenous inoculation. A total of 5 strains were isolated from 22 commercial products and tested. Results highlight one strain (D14) in terms of burden levels in brains and kidneys and ability to cause death, whereas the other two strains (D2 and D4) were considered of low virulence. Our results suggest a strong relationship between some of the virulence-associated phenotypic traits (ability to grow at 39°C and pseudohyphal growth) and the in vivo virulence in a mouse model of intravenous inoculation for isolates under study. The isolate displaying greatest virulence (D14) was evaluated in an experimental murine model of gastrointestinal infection with immunosuppression and disruption of mucosal integrity, which are common risk factors for developing infection in humans, and results were compared with an avirulent strain (D23). We showed that D14 was able to spread to mesenteric nodes and distant organs under these conditions. Given the widespread consumption of dietary supplements, we recommend only safe strains be used.     

A Cross-Sectional Survey on Dietary Supplements Consumption among Italian Teen-Agers

Introduction

In the last decades, dietary supplements consumption has increased in the Western world for all age groups. The long-term potentially dangerous effects related to an indiscriminate consumption of dietary supplements are still unknown and are becoming a matter of public health concern. Therefore, the aims of the present study were: to explore the contribution of dietary supplements to micronutrient daily intake, and to evaluate awareness and knowledge about dietary supplements.

Methods

Participants (age ranging from 14 to 18 years) were recruited among students attending 8 high schools in the province of Frosinone (Italy). An anonymous questionnaire, composed of 12 multiple-choice items, was administered to all the participants. T-test and the analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed to describe differences between means of the groups, while the chi-square test was used to compare observed and expected frequencies. The logistic regression model, aimed at identifying the characteristics of potential consumers of dietary supplements,

Results

A total of 686 teenagers (288 males and 398 females, average age: 17,89±0,91 years) participated in the study. The 83,6% of participants affirmed to be aware of dietary supplements. 239 participants consumed dietary supplements: 118 males and 121 females. 49,1% of females consumed dietary supplements less than twice a week, whereas 43,6% of males consumed dietary supplements from 2 to 5 times per week. Statistically significant differences emerged between the genders with respect to the source of information regarding dietary supplements, the perceived indications for their use, and the choice of the store/place to purchase them.

Discussion

Findings in the present study provide insight into the consumption of dietary supplements among young Italians, highlighting the need to foster further awareness among adolescents about the correct use of dietary supplements, especially in terms of indications and contraindications.     

Prevention of Milk Fever (Hypocalcemic Paresis Puerperalis) by Dietary Salt Supplements

Twelve cows of 14 given a basic diet supplemented with Na2GO3 and NaHCO3 during four weeks pre partum and one week past partum were attacked by milk fever (hypocalcemic paresis puerperalis), while 12 cows of 13 receiving the same basic diet supplemented with sulfates and chlorides remained healthy. A mixture of CaCl2, Al2(SO4)3 and MgSO4 was found to be a convenient prophyllactic supplement. It was found possible to induce and prevent milk fever at successive parturitions in the same cow by altering the dietary conditions. The data give further support to the hypothesis that the alkali alkalinity of the diet is the major factor in induction or prevention of milk fever.     

Effects of Dietary Supplements of Wheat Bran and Cellulose on Faeces and Bowel Function

In a study of bowel function in normal subjects wheat bran or cellulose was added to the diet for four weeks (16 g/day). Stool weight increased. Intestinal transit time did not significantly alter. Faecal bile acids did not increase but were diluted. It seems that the effect of these materials is to produce a bulky stool and that any symptomatic benefit they produce is secondary to this.     

Effects of Selenium and Zinc Status in Biological Samples of Hepatitis C Patient After Herbal and Pharmaceutical Supplements

The use of natural remedies and pharmacological mineral supplements for liver disease treatment has a long history. In present study, the levels of selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) were determined in biological samples (serum and whole blood) of female hepatitis C patients (n?=?132), age ranged 30–45 years, before and after 30 days treatment with herbal/pharmaceutical supplements. For comparative study, 128 age-matched female subjects, residing in the same residential areas and have socioeconomic status, were selected as referents. The Se and Zn in supplements, blood, and sera were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. It was observed that Zn and Se in blood and serum samples of viral hepatitis C (HCV) patients were reduced in the range of 28.6–39 % and 24–36 %, respectively, as compared to those of referents. After herbal/pharmaceutical supplementations, 20.6–25.0 and 9.15–13.2 % of Zn and 10.6–12.1 and 19.6–21.4 % of Se were enhanced in sera and blood samples of HCV patients, respectively. The resulted data indicated that the levels of Se and Zn in addition to some biochemical parameters were improved in HCV patients after herbal/pharmaceutical supplementation. The effects of both supplements were not significantly different (p?>?0.05).     

天麻中天麻素含量的影响因子研究

应用高压液相色谱技术,对产地、品种、以及炮制方法等因素对天麻中天麻素含量的影响进行了比较分析.结果表明,炮制对天麻药材中天麻素的含量影响最大.对不同炮制方法的比较分析结果显示,蒸制法可显著提高天麻素的含量.本文还讨论了天麻素在炮制过程中形成的可能机理.     

Effect of Dietary Intoxication by Mercury Salts on Cysteine Proteinase Activity in Rat Tissues

The experiments on dietary intoxication of rats by HgI₂ or Hg(NO₃)₂ show that the activities of lysosomal proteinase cathepsin B and cytosolic Ca²⁺-activated proteinases (calpains I and II) in the liver and kidney depend on the mercury salt solubility and the exposure duration. Mercury iodide and nitrate contribute more to inhibiting cathepsin B and calpains activities in the above tissues, respectively.     

Clinical and Analytical Toxicology of Dietary Supplements: A Case Study and a Review of the Literature

The use of dietary supplements has grown dramatically in the last decade. A large number of dietary and herbal supplements escape regulatory and quality control; components of these preparations are poisonous and may contain, among other toxins, heavy metals. Uncontrolled use of dietary and herbal supplements by special populations, such as the military, may therefore pose a health risk. Clinical symptoms are not always properly attributed to dietary supplements; patients often do not mention supplement use to their health care provider. Therefore, a health risk estimate is hard to make on either the individual or the population level. The literature on this issue was reviewed and discussed in the light of a representative clinical-chemical case study. This case study was performed on a host of preparations that were used by one single individual in the military. Both essential (chromium, copper, zinc, and iron) and poisonous (arsenic, lead, and nickel) trace elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma combined with optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) or with mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Arsenic and lead were detected at exposure levels associated with health risks. These health risks were detected predominantly in hormone-containing supplements and the herbs and botanicals used for performance enhancement. To the extent that this is a representative sample, there is an underestimation of supplement use and supplement risk in the US military, if not in the general population. Since clinical symptoms may be attributed to other causes and, unless patients are specifically asked, health care providers may not be aware of their patients' use of dietary supplements, a strong support of laboratory diagnostics, such as a toxicological screening of blood or urine, is required. In addition, screening of the preparations themselves may be advised.     

Identification of N‐octylnortadalafil and its Stereoisomers in Dietary Supplements with Chiral Liquid Chromatography–Circular Dichroism

A direct chiral liquid chromatography–circular dichroism (LC‐CD) method was developed for the simple and rapid identification of N‐octylnortadalafil [(6R, 12aR)‐6‐(1,3‐benzodioxol‐5‐yl)‐2‐octyl‐2,3,6,7,12,12a‐hexahydropyrazino[1’,2’:1,6]pyrido[3,4‐b]indole‐1,4‐dione; RR‐OTDF] and its stereoisomers in dietary supplements. Samples were extracted with methanol. Compounds were then separated by chiral LC‐CD using Chiralcel OD‐RH (4.6 × 1 50 mm, 5 µm) with 5 mM ammonium formate (pH 3)/0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile (95:5, v/v) mixture solution (mobile phase A) and 0.1% formic acid in acetonitrile (mobile phase B). The isocratic elution used was mobile phase A / mobile phase B (3:7, v/v) at a flow rate of 1 ml/min. The column temperature was held at 30°C. RR‐OTDF and its stereoisomers were separated within 20 min with the resolution factors being over 2.0. Using this method, RR‐OTDF and (6R, 12aS)‐6‐(1,3‐benzodioxol‐5‐yl)‐2‐octyl‐2,3,6,7,12,12a‐hexahydropyrazino[1’,2’:1,6]pyrido[3,4‐b]indole‐1,4‐dione were detected in a dietary supplement. Chirality 28:204–208, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.     

日粮蛋白质水平对断奶仔猪肠道发育的影响

实验研究了饲粮不同粗蛋白水平对断奶仔猪肠黏膜形态和肠道健康状况的影响.实验采用完全随机设计,将72头28日龄断奶的仔猪分为4组,每组3个重复,每个重复6头.4个组分别接受24%、22%、20%、18%蛋白水平的日粮.结果表明,采食粗蛋白水平为24%的日粮使小肠不同肠段绒毛的生长受到了抑制,使隐窝加深、绒毛/隐窝比降低;随着日粮粗蛋白水平的下降,回肠和盲肠消化物pH、氨氮浓度显著降低(P<0.05),盲肠消化物中腐胺浓度显著降低(P<0.01).采食粗蛋白水平为24%的仔猪有轻度腹泻现象.上述结果提示,适当降低断奶仔猪日粮粗蛋白水平并平衡主要必需氨基酸,有利于降低肠道有害菌群的增殖,改善肠道健康状况.