East Indian Globe Thistle (Echinops echinatus) Overview
1) Conditions Studied
The East Indian Globe Thistle has been traditionally studied for a variety of conditions including:
- Anti-inflammatory conditions
- Antipyretic (fever-reducing) effects
- Antioxidant properties
- Hepatoprotective (liver protection) effects
- Antimicrobial activity
2) Efficacy in Treating Conditions
Research indicates some efficacy in treating the aforementioned conditions, however, most studies conducted have been in vitro or on animal models. More clinical trials are needed to ascertain the efficacy in human populations. Anecdotal evidence suggests some benefit, but such evidence is not scientifically rigorous.
3) Health Benefits
The health benefits associated with East Indian Globe Thistle are largely derived from its traditional use and limited scientific studies. Reported health benefits include:
- Anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and pain
- Antioxidant effects that could protect cells from free radical damage
- Potential hepatoprotective benefits that might aid in liver health
- Antimicrobial properties that could help in fighting certain infections
4) Downsides
While East Indian Globe Thistle is considered safe in traditional use, there can be downsides including:
- Potential allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- Insufficient data on safety profiles for pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Possible interactions with other medications, which are not well studied
- Overuse may lead to adverse effects, although specific side effects are not well documented
5) Genetic Variations and Impact
There is limited research on the relationship between genetic variations and the effects of East Indian Globe Thistle. Some genetic variations may alter an individual's metabolism or response to herbal treatments, but specific interactions between this plant and genetic variations have not been thoroughly studied. As with any herbal remedy, individual responses may vary, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable.
East Indian Globe Thistle (Sphaeranthus indicus) Research Summary
Anticancer Properties
A study found that the petroleum ether extract of Sphaeranthus indicus (S. indicus) has strong anticancer effects, demonstrating cytotoxicity against various human cancer cell lines. Two compounds, β-sitosterol and 7-hydroxyfrullanolide, were isolated and exhibited similar cytotoxic effects. The extract induced apoptosis in HL-60 leukemia cells through multiple mechanisms, suggesting potential for further cancer research.
Larvicidal Properties
Leaf extracts from S. indicus were effective against larvae of the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus, showing promise as eco-friendly alternatives in vector control programs.
Phytochemical Analysis
The study of different Indian medicinal plants, including S. indicus, confirmed the presence of various phytochemicals such as phenols, cardiac glycosides, steroids, saponins, and tannins, highlighting their significance in traditional medicine.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects
Various screening methods demonstrated the antioxidant properties of S. indicus. Additionally, the compound 7-hydroxyfrullanolide derived from the plant significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, showcasing its potential as an oral treatment for inflammatory conditions.
Neuropharmacological Effects
A hydroalcoholic extract of S. indicus showed anxiolytic effects at low doses and anticonvulsant properties in rodent models, supporting its traditional use for treating nervous disorders.
Antidiabetic and Antihyperlipidemic Activities
Root and flower extracts of S. indicus exhibited antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effects in rats, with improvements in blood glucose levels, lipid profiles, and antioxidant enzyme activities.
Prostatic Hyperplasia and Mast Cell Stabilization
Extracts of S. indicus were effective in reducing testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia in rats and showed protective effects against mast cell degranulation, suggesting therapeutic potential for related conditions.
Immunomodulatory Effects
Extracts from S. indicus enhanced various aspects of the immune system in mice, indicating its potential as an immunomodulatory agent.
Renal Protective Effects
S. indicus demonstrated protective effects against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats, likely due to its antioxidant properties.
References:
- Sphaeranthus indicus induces apoptosis through mitochondrial-dependent pathway in HL-60 cells and exerts cytotoxic potential on several human cancer cell lines
- Larvicidal efficacy of Sphaeranthus indicus, Cleistanthus collinus and Murraya koenigii leaf extracts against filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae)
- Eudesmanoids from Sphaeranthus indicus
- Sphaeranthus indicus flower derived constituents exhibits synergistic effect against acetylcholinesterase and possess potential antiamnestic activity
- A novel flavonoid C-glycoside from Sphaeranthus indicus L. (family Compositae)
- Preliminary phytochemical screening of some Indian Medicinal Plants
- In vitro antioxidant studies of Sphaeranthus indicus (Linn)
- 7-hydroxyfrullanolide, a sesquiterpene lactone, inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine production from immune cells and is orally efficacious in animal models of inflammation
- Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Sphaeranthus indicus against experimentally induced anxiety, depression and convulsions in rodents
- Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of ethanolic extract of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn
- Investigation of Antidiabetic, Antihyperlipidemic, and In Vivo Antioxidant Properties of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. in Type 1 Diabetic Rats: An Identification of Possible Biomarkers
- Antidiabetic properties of the alcoholic extract of Sphaeranthus indicus in streptozotocin-nicotinamide diabetic rats
- Preventive effect of Sphaeranthus indicus during progression of glucocorticoid-induced insulin resistance in mice
- Sphaeranthus indicus attenuates testosterone induced prostatic hypertrophy in albino rats
- Mast cell stabilizing effects of Sphaeranthus indicus
- Immunomodulatory activity of petroleum ether extract of flower heads of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn
- Protective effect of bioactive fraction of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. against cyclophosphamide induced suppression of humoral immunity in mice
- Effect of ethanol extract of Sphaeranthus indicus on cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats
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