Lorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250401Effect of Formulation and Process Variables on Nanoemulsion Properties of Eucalyptus Globulus Essential Oil23400910.22087/hmj.2025.556996.1019ENKhadidjaYanallahDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran, Oran, Algeria.0009-0006-5091-8807BadreddineBerrahouDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran, Oran, Algeria.Mohammed RyadBensfiaDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran, Oran, Algeria.Islem NadirHadj KadiDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran, Oran, Algeria.AmelChenafaDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sidi Bel Abbes, Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria.DerouichaMatmourDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sidi Bel Abbes, Sidi Bel Abbes, Algeria.NassimaMoussaouiDepartment of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oran, Oran, Algeria.Journal Article20250217Background and Aim: This study investigates nanoemulsion formulation of Eucalyptus globulus essential oil to overcome volatility and low solubility, enhancing its physicochemical properties for pharmaceutical and medical applications.<br>Materials and Methods: In this study, nanoemulsions were prepared by spontaneous emulsification using a mixture of an aqueous phase (distilled water) and an organic phase composed of eucalyptus oil and non-ionic surfactants, TWEEN® 20 or TWEEN® 80 as emulsifiers, at different proportions. The different formulations were prepared using two main methods: heat treatment and simple mixing. Particle size analysis, zeta potential and polydispersity index (PDI) were studied on the freshly prepared mixtures. The stability was assessed using the centrifugation.<br>Results: The prepared nanoemulsions exhibited a transparent appearance with a nanometric globule size distribution, confirming their good homogeneity. Among the tested formulations, F1 presented the smallest droplet size (35.7 nm), while the others ranged between 35.7 and 1487 nm. The zeta potential values were between -1.02 and -3.67 mV, indicating a moderate electrostatic stabilization. However, F1 showed weak physical stability over time, which can be attributed to the use of a single surfactant, leading to phase separation under stress conditions.<br>Conclusion: The results confirm that the formulations obtained by spontaneous emulsification meet the physicochemical criteria of nanoemulsions in terms of droplet size, appearance, and homogeneity. Their physical stability remains limited, particularly for F1, due to the formulation strategy. Future research may focus on the optimization of surfactant/co-surfactant systems and the incorporation of stabilizing agents to improve long-term stability and broaden potential pharmaceutical applications.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_234009_08be97ef21f600d2343bf2100787075f.pdfLorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250401Effect of Curcumin–Piperine Supplementation on Stress, Depression, and Anxiety in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial23399910.22087/hmj.2025.539849.1001ENFatemeCheshmiStudents Research Committee, Nutritional Health Research Center, Department of Nutrition, School of Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, IranRasoolMohammadiNutritional Health Research Center, Health and Nutritional Department, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, IranSaeedChoobkarSchool of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, IranAnitaFazeli MoghadamStudents Research Committee, Nutritional Health Research Center, Department of Nutrition, School of Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran0009-0006-1113-2924EzatollahFazeli MoghadamNutritional Health Research Center, Department of Nutrition, School of Health and Nutrition, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran.0000-0001-6322-4229Journal Article20250208ABSTRACT<br>Background: Depression, anxiety, and stress are common among individuals with type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of curcumin–piperine supplementation on stress, depression, and anxiety in patients with type 2 diabetes.<br>Methods: In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 64 patients with type 2 diabetes who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to receive either one capsule of 500 mg curcumin–piperine supplement or one placebo daily for 12 weeks. Anthropometric indices as well as scores for depression, stress, and anxiety were measured at baseline and after the intervention.<br>Results: All 64 patients completed the study. Compared to the placebo group, the curcumin–piperine group showed a significant reduction in stress and anxiety scores (P = 0.005 and P = 0.038, respectively). No significant differences were observed in depression scores (P = 0.163), body mass index (BMI, kg/m²), waist circumference (WC, cm), or body weight (kg) between the two groups (BMI: 29.97 ± 4.54 vs. 28.95 ± 3.85; WC: 103.56 ± 13.71 vs. 96.12 ± 13.71; weight: 83.64 ± 14.30 vs. 74.53 ± 11.82, respectively). <br>Conclusion: Daily curcumin–piperine supplementation significantly reduced stress and anxiety levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, though no significant effects were observed on depression or anthropometric measures.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_233999_9db79ed4dfed50ac80649fd4ab37e771.pdfLorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250401Effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Echinophora platyloba L. on morphine-induced hyperactivity and the acquisition of tolerance to locomotor-stimulant impacts of morphine in male mice23400510.22087/hmj.2025.554433.1011ENAmir AbbasBazegariDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran.0000-0003-2073-4696َMiladZareDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran.0009-0003-0210-5025Amir HosseinGolestaniDepartment of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Maragheh, Maragheh, Iran.Journal Article20250204Background and Aim: Previous studies have shown that the hydroalcoholic extract of Echinophora platyloba inhibits the acquisition of morphine dependence and the rewarding effects of the drug. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the impact of the plant's hydroethanolic extract on tolerance to morphine-induced hyperactivity.<br>Materials and methods: Male mice (24-28 g) were randomly assigned into groups of 8. To evaluate the effects of drugs on locomotor activity, mice received morphine (0.5, 5, 10, 20, 40 mg/kg, s.c.) and the plant extract (25,50, 75 mg/kg, i.p.). Respective control groups received saline. In the next phase, the plant extract (25,50, 75 mg/kg) or saline was administered one hour before the dose of morphine (40 mg/kg), which induced hyperactivity. Finally, during the induction of tolerance to hyperactivity by morphine, four groups of mice received saline or plant extract (25,50, 75 mg/kg) one hour before receiving morphine doses.<br>Results: Morphine, depending on its dose, had dual inhibitory or stimulatory effects on locomotor activity, but all doses of the plant extract inhibited the spontaneous locomotor activity of the animals. In addition, when the plant extract was administered before morphine (40 mg/kg), it completely abolished the morphine-induced hyperactivity. Lastly, administration of the plant extract before morphine, in days of tolerance induction, attenuated the development of tolerance to morphine hyperactivity in mice. <br>Conclusion: The hydroethanolic extract of E. platyloba may have preventive effects on the induction of morphine tolerance. Therefore, E. platyloba may have therapeutic potential in morphine addiction treatment.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_234005_bbcfb7c112b330e0f304227ee9be758c.pdfLorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250401Reactivation of Acetylcholinesterase Enzyme Inhibited by Organophosphate Toxic Compounds Using Aqueous Extract of Carob Seed23504010.22087/hmj.2025.559272.1027ENMinooAsadiDepartment of Biology, Research Center of Basic Science, University of Lorestan, Khorramabad, Iran.0000-0002-1929-6919Seyed HesamaldinHejaziAssistant Professor of Molecular Genetics, Department of Biology, Research Center of Basic Sciences, University of Lorestan,
Khorramabad, Iran.0000-0002-8876-2004FaranakHadiAssociate Professor of Molecular Genetics, Department of Biology, Research Center of Basic Sciences, University of Lorestan,
Khorramabad, Iran.0000-0003-4990-664XJournal Article20250219Abstract<br><br>Introduction: The inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) by organophosphates poses significant health risks. This study investigated the potential of an aqueous extract of carob seed (Ceratonia siliqua), rich in phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity, to modulate AChE activity and facilitate its reactivation after inhibition by organophosphate toxicants.<br>Materials and Methods: An aqueous extraction was performed on ground seeds. Functional groups in the extract were identified using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Antioxidant properties at concentrations of 100, 500, and 1000 μg/mL were assessed via the DPPH free radical scavenging and Folin-Ciocalteu methods. The Ellman method was used to analyze serum AChE activity and its reactivation after inhibition by diazinon when treated with the extract.<br>Results: The IC50 for DPPH radical inhibition was 372.10 μg/mL. The findings show the aqueous carob seed extract exhibits significant antioxidant properties. It modulated AChE activity in a concentration-dependent manner and facilitated the reactivation of the enzyme inhibited by diazinon.<br>Conclusion: The aqueous extract of carob seed demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, activated AChE, and effectively reactivated the enzyme after inhibition by diazinon, suggesting its potential as a natural therapeutic candidate against organophosphate poisoning.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_235040_370d75e5da702ed03a8eefb8bc5d00af.pdfLorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250401Synergistic Effects of Eugenol-Functionalized Nanoparticles Against Staphylococcus aureus: A Promising Approach to Combat Antibiotic Resistance and Biofilm Formation23400710.22087/hmj.2025.554513.1013ENMorovatTaherikalaniRazi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, IranFaranakRezaeiDepartment of Medical Microbiology,
Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center,
Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran0000-0002-8656-0417SetarehSoroushDepartment of Medical Microbiology,
Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center,
Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran0000-0002-1661-6323Journal Article20250209The emergence of antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and its capacity for biofilm formation pose significant challenges in healthcare. Eugenol, a natural phenolic compound, has demonstrated potential as an antimicrobial agent, but its clinical application is hindered by issues like poor solubility and volatility. Advances in nanotechnology have addressed these limitations by functionalizing nanoparticles with eugenol, enhancing its stability, bioavailability, and antimicrobial efficacy. This systematic review critically examines the synergistic effects of eugenol-functionalized nanoparticles (EFNPs) against S. aureus, focusing on their potential to combat antibiotic resistance and disrupt biofilm formation. The analysis reveals that EFNPs significantly lower minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and increase zones of inhibition compared to free eugenol. Additionally, EFNPs demonstrate strong antibiofilm activity, effectively preventing the formation of new biofilms and disrupting existing ones. Mechanistic insights suggest that EFNPs disrupt bacterial membranes, generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and downregulate biofilm-associated genes, contributing to their antimicrobial and antibiofilm efficacy. With minimal cytotoxicity and no observed resistance development in S. aureus, EFNPs present a promising adjunct or alternative to conventional antibiotics. However, further research, including in vivo studies and clinical trials, is necessary to fully realize their potential in combating resistant bacterial infections.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_234007_74dd37c7ca0cecca5c9b0dde783b2956.pdfLorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250414Native Iranian Medicinal Plants and Their Role in Hematopoiesis: A Traditional Medicine Review23402810.22087/hmj.2025.558886.1025ENMehranNorooziDepartment of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran0000-0002-3021-1859Journal Article20250206Background: The review seeks to integrate historical wisdom with modern research to provide a comprehensive understanding of blood-enriching plants.<br>Methods: The study was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, classical texts and sources of Iranian traditional medicine were reviewed to identify plants associated with hematopoiesis. In the second phase, a systematic search of established databases including PubMed, Scopus, SID, and Iranian traditional medicine resources was performed. Keywords such as “traditional medicine,” “medicinal plants,” “anemia,” and “hematopoiesis” were used to extract relevant data.<br>Findings: The results indicated that plants such as Vitis vinifera, Morus alba, Pistacia vera, Prunus amygdalus Batsch, Cicer arietinum, Medicago sativa, Ziziphus spina-christi, Phoenix dactylifera, Daucus carota, Apium graveolens, Spinacia oleracea, Beta vulgaris, Ocimum basilicum, Allium schoenoprasum, Petroselinum crispum, Coriandrum sativum, Punica granatum, Malus domestica, Ficus carica, Melissa officinalis, Alhagi maurorum, and Terminalia chebula are recognized as hematopoietic in traditional medicine. Modern scientific studies support these effects, highlighting mechanisms such as enhanced red blood cell production, improved iron absorption, and stimulation of hemoglobin synthesis.<br>Conclusion: Native Iranian medicinal plants may offer a natural, cost-effective, and safe strategy for the prevention and treatment of anemia, particularly in children and adults. Bridging traditional knowledge with scientific research provides a promising avenue for the development of natural, blood-boosting therapies.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_234028_6d8f8d5fe138431e69492ed416c6d11b.pdfLorestan University of Medical SciencesHerbal Medicines Journal2538-214410220250401Medicinal Plants Effective in Addiction Treatment in Iranian Traditional Medicine and Their Mechanisms of Action: A Review23400310.22087/hmj.2025.552073.1008ENArezouKianiDepartment of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.0000-0003-1951-1698Journal Article20250218Background and Aim: Addiction to narcotics represents a complex and pervasive public health disorder with profound physical, psychological, and social consequences. This review aims to identify medicinal plants effective in addiction treatment from the perspective of ITM and to examine their potential mechanisms of action.<br>Methods: In this review, authoritative ITM sources, including classical books and manuscripts by renowned sages, were combined with recent scientific articles retrieved from both international and national databases using relevant keywords. Inclusion criteria comprised studies reporting the effects of medicinal plants on reducing substance dependence and withdrawal symptoms, alongside credible ITM references, while studies lacking empirical data or relevance were excluded.<br>Results: Plants such as Melissa officinalis L., Valeriana officinalis L., Borago officinalis L., Crocus sativus L., Cichorium intybus L., Berberis vulgaris L., Glycyrrhiza glabra L., Matricaria chamomilla L., Mentha spicata L., Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Zingiber officinale Roscoe have traditionally been used in ITM to modulate temperamental disorders, strengthen the nervous system, reduce anxiety and depression, and cleanse the liver and blood, thereby mitigating withdrawal symptoms. <br>Conclusion: The application of medicinal plants in ITM may serve as a safe and effective complementary approach for addiction cessation and mitigation of dependency symptoms. Nonetheless, further well-designed, controlled human clinical studies are required to determine appropriate dosages, evaluate potential adverse effects, and substantiate their therapeutic efficacy. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific methods could open new avenues in addiction treatment and relapse prevention.https://hmj.lums.ac.ir/article_234003_94b75b043c5791aaba6b8eea57d3dd4e.pdf