NOPR Collection:

A scoping review of methodologies opted for photoprotection of herbal formulation for the herbal sunscreen formulation

2026-04-01T00:00:00Z

Title: A scoping review of methodologies opted for photoprotection of herbal formulation for the herbal sunscreen formulation Authors: Maheshwari, Payal; Chakraborty, Debajyoti; Giramalla, Patil; Shekar Jagtap, Chandra; Chaudhari, Swapnil; R Yadav, Pramod; Galib Abstract: In the current scenario, fragmented and inconsistent photoprotective evaluation methodologies for herbal drugs and formulations must be evaluated and standardised through a scoping review. In order to identify gaps, improve scientific rigour, and support the development of potent herbal photoprotective agents, this review methodically examines the current landscape of experimental approaches and analytical techniques used to evaluate herbal and Ayurvedic sunscreen formulations. Peer-reviewed studies published since 2000 were included, and a review was carried out in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines, and databases like PubMed, Science Direct, AYUSH Research Portal, and Google Scholar were searched. Studies that used analytical standardisation techniques like UV-Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, or HPLC and examined herbal or plant-based formulations for photoprotective efficacy using in-vitro, ex-vivo, in-vivo, or clinical models were included. Of the 1445 Studies, 36 studies-28 in vitro, 7 in vivo, and 1 clinical trial met the eligibility criteria of the review. The findings show that phytochemicals such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and carotenoids are widely used and a variety of dosage forms, such as creams, gels, nanoemulsions, and liposomes, were formulated. These formulations showed cellular protection, antioxidant capacity, and quantifiable SPF values. Nonetheless, there is a wide variation in formulation strategies, assessment criteria, and standardisation methods. In order to promote the development and clinical translation of sunscreens derived from plants, the review highlights the urgent need for standardised protocols and regulatory alignment. This work provides a consolidated foundation for future research and innovation in natural or Herbal photoprotection. Page(s): 309-325

Comprehensive review on efficacy and safety evaluation of laxatives of traditional medicinal plants of India

2026-04-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Comprehensive review on efficacy and safety evaluation of laxatives of traditional medicinal plants of India Authors: Nath Chouhan, Poona; Patel, Harshal; Thakur, Sapna; Kumar, Neeraj Abstract: Ayurveda, uses a holistic approach to cure any disorder, among which constipation is one entity. The entity, such as constipation or any gut disorder associated with the constipated bowel, should be treated with laxatives. Herbal laxatives are considered the best option, as they have the least prolonged or unwanted complications. Ayurveda houses multiple drugs that are indicated specifically as needed. This study aims to group drugs derived under one umbrella from different classes, such as Charaka, Sushruta and Bhav Prakash, and is supported by scientific evidence from in vivo studies or clinical trials available from various resources. Herbal laxatives have a defined potential clinically but need more scientific evidence for validation and to be set as standards. Page(s): 326-339

Efficacy of a polyherbal formulation in PCOD: A prospective clinical trial

2026-04-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Efficacy of a polyherbal formulation in PCOD: A prospective clinical trial Authors: Naaz, Afifa; Begum, Wajeeha; Nabi Wani, Ghulam Abstract: Polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age worldwide, with a prevalence of 5–15% depending on diagnostic criteria. Its aetiology involves genetic and environmental factors. Clinically, PCOD presents with hyperandrogenism, oligomenorrhoea, anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Due to the limitations and side effects of conventional therapies, there is increasing interest in alternative and holistic approaches. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a Unani polyherbal formulation in the clinical management of PCOD. A pre–post interventional clinical study was conducted on 30 women aged 18–35 years diagnosed with PCOD based on ESHRE/ASRM criteria. Patients with pelvic pathology, malignancy, uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disorders, or those using contraceptives were excluded. Participants received a formulation comprising Nankhawah, Badiyan, and Wajturki, administered orally twice daily for five days before the expected menstrual period and continued for five days, for three consecutive cycles. Outcome measures included ovarian volume, menstrual cycle duration, body weight, acanthosis nigricans (AN) score, modified Ferriman–Gallwey (mFG) score, and SF-12 quality of life. Statistically significant improvements were observed post-treatment (p<0.001). Ovarian volumes reduced, and menstrual cycle duration decreased markedly. AN and mFG scores showed significant reduction, indicating improvement in hyperandrogenism. SF12 scores demonstrated enhanced quality of life. The Unani polyherbal formulation showed promising therapeutic efficacy in managing PCOD by regulating menstrual cycles, reducing hyperandrogenic features, and improving quality of life. Page(s): 340-347

Ethnobotanical knowledge and phenolic profiles of plants used for hypertension management in the Algerian steppe, North Africa

2026-04-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Ethnobotanical knowledge and phenolic profiles of plants used for hypertension management in the Algerian steppe, North Africa Authors: Khaled Khodja, Yazid; Bachir-bey, Mostapha; Felfoul, Imène; Khiari, Mohamed; Dahia, Mostefa; Attia, Hamadi; Souttou, Karim Abstract: This study explores ethnobotanical practices in the Algerian steppe, focusing on medicinal plants traditionally used to manage hypertension and their phenolic profiles. A survey based on a semi-structured questionnaire was carried out with 250 herbalists to collect socio-demographic and botanical data, and the phenolic profiles of medicinal plants were analyzed. The survey identified 35 plant species distributed across 19 botanical families, with Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Apiaceae being the most dominant. The six most frequently cited species were Allium sativum, Thymus algeriensis, Laurus nobilis, Curcuma longa, Coriandrum sativum, and Moringa oleifera. Plant parts used included aerial parts, leaves, seeds, and flowers, with decoction and infusion as primary preparation methods. Phytochemical profiling by HPLC detected 37 phenolic compounds across the six selected species. Allium sativum showed the highest content (56.70 µg/g DW), mainly composed of rhamnetin and sinapic acid. Thymus algeriensis and Laurus nobilis were rich in flavonoids such as kaempferol, catechin, and rutin. Curcuma longa displayed curcuminoids, Coriandrum sativum contained chlorogenic acid, while Moringa oleifera contained chlorogenic acid, catechin, and rutin, revealing distinct species-specific phenolic profiles. These findings emphasize the importance of ethnopharmacological knowledge in hypertension management and offer a scientific basis for future pharmacological and clinical investigations. Page(s): 348-358