Journal of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine

Pratin Sapboonmee

Yongsak Tantipidok — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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MAI TAO YAI MOM-RAK

Thongchai Sooksawate, Rutchanee Chantraket, Pakakrong Kwankhao — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Editorial Board

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Instructions to Authors (Revised 2023)

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Review of Warm-Needling Acupuncture Treatment for Frozen Shoulder

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objectives: Frozen shoulder (FS) is a shoulder disorder commonly found in the general
population. It is manifested by chronic pain and reduced range of motion (ROM) of the shoulder. This condition is referred to as “Bi Zheng” in traditional Chinese medicine. Currently, there has been research on the clinical effectiveness of treating frozen shoulder with warm-needling acupuncture (WNA). The purposes of this study were to explore the effectiveness and to review treatment approaches for frozen shoulder with WNA.

Methods: This documentary research involved the literature review of clinical research papers on WNA
for treating frozen shoulder that had been published on the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) online database from January 2012 to December 2022. The keywords used were “warm-needling acupuncture” and “frozen shoulder”. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of clinical effectiveness on WNA for frozen shoulder were selected.

Results: Warm-needling acupuncture was effective in treating frozen shoulder, providing relief from the
pain, reducing inflammation, improving the quality of life for patients, and enhancing shoulder mobility. In addition, various acupuncture techniques and methods have been used and studied to compare their effectiveness in treating frozen shoulder, such as Jian San Zhen technique and simultaneous needling technique.

Discussion: Acupuncture points for treating frozen shoulder include those around shoulder joints and
arms, i.e. Jiayu (LI15), Quchi (LI11) and Hegu (LI4) located on large intestine meridian of hand Yangming,
Jianzhen (SI9) on small intestine meridian of hand Taiyang, Jianliao (TE14) and Waiguan (TE5) on meridian of hand Shaoyang Sanjiao, Jianqian (EX-UE12), an extra point on upper extremity, and trigger point. The treatment effectiveness was measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Constant-Murley Score, Barthel Index, Pain Rating Index (PRI), Melle Score for Evaluation of Shoulder Joint, and Function Japanese Orthopedic Association Scores. Warm-needling acupuncture yielded significantly better overall outcomes than those in the control group
(P < 0.05).

Conclusion and Recommendation: Warm-needling acupuncture is effective in treating frozen shoulder. It can be implemented as a clinical approach for patient care.

Policy and Ethics

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Effectiveness and Safety of Knee Massage and Herbal Poultice for Patients with Lom Jab Pong Haeng Khao (Osteoarthritis of the Knee)

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

This research studies the effectiveness and safety of the herbal poultice on knee-osteoarthritis patients in public health service facilities. The research is a randomized controlled trial, aiming to inquire about the historical background, clinical assessment, and safety against adverse effects from the massage and knee poultice. Methodologically, 300 volunteers who matched the inclusion criteria were recruited from nine pilot areas in four regions of Thailand. The participants were randomly assigned into two groups: the control group (massage only) and the experimental group (massage and poultice). Both groups had 150 participants, equally. The tools for data collection were the historical background, the knee-osteoarthritis clinical-assessment form WOMAC, and the safety assessment form for adverse effects. The data were statistically analyzed using percentages, mean, standard deviations, and ANOVA tests.

Results : The majority were female patients. mainly 60-69 years old, with a weight of 51-70 kg and a BMI of 25-29.9 kg/m². The osteoarthritis symptoms of the patients (identified by X-rays film) were majorly in stages 2-3. The clinical assessment of the osteoarthritis symptom (before and after the intervention) was done for five repeats. The experimental group receiving massage and poultice treatment had significantly less pain, stiffness, and better knee function (P < 0.05). The clinical assessment of the osteoarthritis stage (stages 0-4) revealed that participants in the experimental group of every stage had milder symptoms after receiving herbal poultice. In addition, the mild-symptom (stages 0-2) had a decrease in the average score of pain and stiffness ang had higher knee function scores than stages 3-4. After completing five repeats of the treatment, the statistical analysis significantly in the experimental group compared to the control group (P<0.05). The both groups were safe and no Adverse Drug Event (ADE)

Sugestion, this research project should propose to the National Health Security Office that “Pok Khao” is Thai traditional operation and will be information for determining the benefits package of patient who have knee osteoarthritis. The DTAM should develop the herbal poultice treatment for instant product to be used as a self-care eg herbal patch,spray,gel

Effectiveness of Healer or Mor Laekho’s Herbal Poultice on Perceived Knee Pain in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients

Noor-asma Puti, Daliyan Saleah, Suthinee Hookheaw — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a disease burden associated with the increasing number of elderly people, resulting in an increased incidence of chronic diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Using herbal knee poultice is another form of treatment for knee pain. The use of herbal knee poultice was found in the formula of a folk healer, Mor (Ms.) Laekho Sidi, who was recognized by the people in Ra-ngae district, Narathiwat province. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of Mor Laekho’s herbal poultice on perceived knee pain in KOA patients.

Methods: This pre-experimental research with a one-group pretest-posttest design involved 30 KOA patients. Mor Laekho’s herbal poultice containing Piper nigrum, Micromelum minutum, and albumin was pasted on the knee joints for 20 minutes per day for three consecutive days. The measurements of perceived knee pain after the third experiment were made using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) Index. Descriptive statistics and paired t-test were used for data analysis.

Results: After using the herbal poultice, the knee pain scale, the degree of stiffness, and the degree of operability of the knee joint decreased significantly (P < 0.01), compared to before the experiment. The means and standard deviations of perceived knee pain scores before and after using the herbal poultice was 6.00 ± 0.79 and 4.19 ± 0.74, respectively.

Discussion: A comparison of mean pain scores before and after using Mor Laekho’s herbal poultice revealed a significant drop in the perceived knee pain. As a result, the KOA patients could perform their daily activities better. Moreover, after applying the herbal poultice, none of the subjects experienced adverse drug reactions.

Conclusion: Mor Laekho’s herbal poultice is effective for reducing knee pain in knee osteoarthritis patients. Thus, the herbal poultice might be an alternative treatment for knee osteoarthritis.

Effect of Hot Herbal Foot Bath Formula on Quality of Life in Patients with End-stage Liver Cancer at the Thai Traditional and Integrated Medicine Hospital

Amornrat Rachderm, Preecha Nootim, Thanwa Buamahakul, Worakarn Mada — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: End-stage liver cancer patients mostly suffer physical and mental changes, resulting in the patients’ and relatives’ poorer quality of life as well as illness symptoms such as pain, agitation, depression, breathing difficulty, and other discomforts. If the symptoms are not alleviated, they may cause an impact on the patient's therapy and quality of life. This research aimed to explore the effect of hot herbal foot bath formula on the quality of life in patients with end-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the patient satisfaction with the formula, following the Thai traditional medicine treatment protocol for such patients in the hospital’s inpatient department (IPD) from March 2020 to March 2021.

Methods: This quasi-experimental research involved 26 end-stage HCC inpatients hospitalized at the Thai Traditional Medicine and Integrated Medicine Hospital in Bangkok. An Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) form and a satisfaction questionnaire were used as research tools. Descriptive statistics and paired samples test were used for data analyses.

Results: Based on the pre- and post-treatment ESAS score comparison, the suffering symptoms after treatment had improved. The most improved symptom was the pain, followed by physical and mental well-being and depression. The symptoms affecting the quality of life significantly deceased (P < 0.05). Regarding patient satisfaction, the overall level was high with a mean score of 4.00. As for each aspect, the mean satisfaction level with the care based on the clinical practice guidelines was highest at 4.38, followed by the high level for convenience and application at 4.05.

Discussion: The hot herbal foot bath formula is effective and can be practically applied to improve the quality of life in patients with end-stage HCC. The findings are consistent with Jaipetch's study, which discusses the health benefits of soaking feet in warm water at a temperature of approximately 36–38°C for 10–15 minutes. This practice can induce relaxation, improve sleep quality, alleviate toe-tip burning sensation, and enhance blood circulation.

Conclusion and recommendation: This is a preliminary follow-up study on the quality of life in patient care with a hot herbal foot bath formula. It had limitations as the comparative study was undertaken in only one group of end-stage liver cancer patients. Thus, further studies should be conducted with more stringent research methodology.

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Scalp Electro-acupuncture and Yao Tong Dian Electro-acupuncture in Patients with Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: Nowadays, the working-age population has occupational disease problems due to sitting in the same position for a long time, resulting in cumulative stress and muscle tension, including low back pain. For treating such a condition, modern medicines commonly used are painkillers and muscle relaxants, while traditional Chinese medicine uses Chinese herbal drugs, traditional acupuncture, scalp acupuncture, Yao Tong Dian acupoint acupuncture, etc. Scalp and Yao Tong Dian acupunctures need fewer needles and both are convenient, safe, and reportedly effective. Moreover, Yao Tong Dian acupoints are more easily located as their anatomical positions are clear. The research team therefore conducted a comparative study of the efficacy of scalp and Yao Tong Dian acupuncture treatments with electrical stimulation.

Methods: Patients with low back pain took part in this randomized controlled trial. Data were collected from a sample of 40 such patients, divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group, 20 patients each; each group received three treatment sessions. The patients’ pain was assessed using the short-form McGill Pain Questionnaire and a Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS).

Results: Based on basic statistical analyses, after each treatment in both groups, their pain levels dropped significantly. The differences in the mean pain scores before the first treatment and after the third treatment were 5.6 for the control group and 4.97 for the experimental group.

Discussion: After three treatments, both scalp acupuncture and Yao Tong Dian acupuncture therapies were significantly effective in relieving low back pain; and there were no significant differences in pain reduction between both groups.

Conclusion and recommendation: Treatment of low back pain with scalp electro-acupuncture and Yao Tong Dian electro-acupuncture has similar effectiveness; there were no significant differences. So, both treatments are another option for treating low back pain as they are simple, convenient, effective, fast, and safe that can be used in clinical practice.

Development and Method Validation of Orientin and Vitexin Contents in Garcinia cowa Roxb. Leaves Using Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Cha Muang has the scientific name Garcinia cowa Roxb. ex Choisy belonging to Family Clusiaceae. The taste of young leaves of Garcinia cowa is sour.
It has been used for laxative, antipyretic and mucolytic agents. In addition, it is also used as food. Cha Muang have been used as active ingredient of several drugs and products in the markets. However, the appropriate analytical methods for quality control of those compounds is still limited. This study aimed to develop analytical methods for quantification assessment of orientin and vitexin in Garcinia cowa leaves samples using the Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) technique.

Methods: The study was divided into three steps: developing the UHPLC method for analyzing orientin and vitexin in Cha Muang leaves, testing the validity of the analysis method, and analyzing the quantity of orientin and vitexin in 9 Cha Muang leaf samples.

Results: This method was validated by establishing the linearity for orientin and vitexin at concentration range of 1.32-127.01 and 1.40-134.06 μg/mL, respectively, with a determination correlation coefficient (r) of 0.9999. The % recovery were in the range of 96.26 to 103.15%. The limit of detection of orientin and vitexin were 0.002 and 0.003% w/w (calculated on the dried-weight as Garcinia cowa leaves, µg/µg), respectively, while limit of quantification were 0.006 and 0.009% w/w (calculated on the dried-weight as Garcinia cowa leaves, µg/µg), respectively. The average content of orientin and vitexin in Garcinia cowa leaves were 0.10 and 0.06%w/w (calculated on the dried-weight as Garcinia cowa leaves, µg/µg), respectively.

Discussion: The method developed for analyzing orientin and vitexin in raw Cha Muang leaves using UHPLC involves the extraction of dried Cha Muang leaves with 50% ethanol as the solvent through the reflux method. The results of the validity test of the analysis method were all within acceptable limits. This developed analysis method requires less time for analysis and involves a simple, convenient, and rapid preparation of the mobile phase

Conclusion and Recommendation: This newly developed method is suitable and can be used to analyze the content of orientin and vitexin in Garcinia cowa leaves; and the appropriate specification of orientin and vitexin contents in Garcinia cowa leaves could be established.

The Evaluation of Chemical and Physico-Chemical Properties of Mitragyna speciosa (Korth.) Havil. Leaves

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: Mitragyna speciosa (Korth.) Havil., commonly known as kratom, belongs to the family Rubiaceae. Kratom leaves have medicinal properties for relieving stomach pain and body aches, curing dysentery and diarrhea, and tranquilizing the body. However, the standard methods for quality control of this plant have not been established in the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the chemical and physico-chemical properties of M. speciosa leaves.

Methods: Seventeen samples of M. speciosa leaves were obtained from many provinces throughout Thailand and compared to the authentic sample received from the Herbarium Laboratory. The samples of M. speciosa leaves were preliminarily examined for chemical properties using color reaction. Chemical identification was performed using the thin layer chromatography (TLC) method and their chemical and physico-chemical properties were also determined.

Results: All 17 M. speciosa leave samples, based on the color reactions of the preliminary examination, were positive for alkaloids, flavonoids and phenolics; and based on the TLC method, they were positive for alkaloids including mitragynine. As for their chemical and physico-chemical properties, shown as mean ± SD, the moisture, total ash, acid-insoluble ash, water-soluble extractive and ethanol-soluble extractive contents were 5.60 ± 0.68%, 4.67 ± 0.37%, 0.14 ± 0.02%, 19.52 ± 1.68% and 17.12 ± 2.81% w/w, respectively.

Discussion: The examination of chemical and physico-chemical properties and the verification of the chemical identity of M. speciosa leaf raw materials are beneficial for controlling chemical quality to meet the criteria for standardizing herbal medicines and to ensure their good quality and consistency for effective consumption.

Conclusion and recommendation: The results of this study have led to the establishment of a monograph and the standardization of dried M. speciosa leaves in the Thai Herbal Pharmacopoeia to be used as a reference standard of Thailand.

Establishing Root Culture of Cannabis sativa L. for the Production of Active Compounds

Tipawan Phrugmanon, Soraphet Masud, Papawadee Suyuttabuth — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Cannabis ( Cannabis sativa L. ) family Cannabiaceae which its roots has been used in treatment of diseases. Disadventage of cannabis cultivation in natural environment are taking a long time less of constitient and contamination microbacterail heavy minerals. The objective of this study is to produced roots using suspensionculture tecnige

Methods: cannabis seeds was sterilized and then culture on MS media until the cotyledon, leaves and roots were appeared explant were culture on 6 different formula media. The roots obtained from suitable media were transform in to the liquid media.

Results: It was found that the most suitable media was 1.25 MS which consisted of growth regulators 6-benzylaminopurine and 1-naphthaleneacetic acid of the concentration 0.5 and 1 mg/L . After 15 days of suspension culture, the weights of roots obtained from cotyledons, leaves and roots were ( mean ± sd ) 0.35 ± 0.36, 0.41 ± 0.15 and 0.40 ± 0.14 grams respectively.

Discussion: Roots suspension culture of cannabis with the above processes and recipes. Reduce heavy metal and microbial contamination and increase root load quickly. Also found freidelin.

Conclusion and Recommendation: In The future, it will be used for the lage scale productory for future pharmacological study.

A Study of Thai Traditional Medicine Knowledge for Postpartum Care of Folk Healers in Four Regions of Thailand

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: This qualitative study’s objective was to collect traditional knowledge of postpartum care by folk healers in four regions of Thailand.

Methods: An interview form was used to collect data from folk healers who specialized in traditional midwifery. The folk healers were selected from designated zones according to the culture of four regions; of all 18 selected folk healers/midwives, six were in the Northeast, four in the South, five in the North, and three in the Central Plains. They were all selected using purposive sampling from the list of registered indigenous healers.

Results: Of all the participants/folk healers, 10 (55.56%) were male while 8 (44.44%) were female; all were aged ≥60 years and completed an associate degree or lower, had more than 10 years of healing experiences and are currently treating postpartum women. All medicinal herbs used were formulary remedies. Of all healers, 88.89% inherited treatment knowledge from their ancestors. They did not have any system for history taking and physical examination, but focusing on asking about harmful foods and behaviors. The folk healers were divided into three groups: (1) the group focusing on herbal medicines to increase milk production; (2) the group focusing on treating postpartum symptoms and diseases; and (3) the group focusing on Thai postpartum herbal formulas and staying by a fire (Yu Fai). A total of 45 medicinal formulas were obtained, of which 10 for boosting breast-milk production, 21 for healing postpartum diseases/symptoms, and 14 for postpartum care during the Yu Fai period.

Discussion: Single herbs with a high use value commonly used by folk healers in the breastmilk production-boosting formulas are Caesalpinia sappan L., Anomianthus dulcis (Dunal) J.Sinclair, Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Xantolis cambodiana (Pierre ex Dubard) P.Royen, snd Mesua ferrea L. Such herbs have the effect of promoting breastmilk production via estrogenic effect activity and increasing prolactin hormone. Other single herbs for treating postpartum diseases with high use values include Zingiber cassumunar Roxb., Allium sativum L., Dioscorea birmanica Prain & Burkill, Smilax glabra Roxb., Croton oblongifolius Roxb., Curcuma longa L., and Curcuma comosa Roxb. The herbs promote the healing of postpartum diseases via anti-inflammatory mechanism by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase, antioxidant effect, cytotoxicity of cervical cancer cells, but are not toxic to normal cells. While single herbs used for Thai traditional caring after birth, Yu Fai, and as ingredients of Yu Fai remedies, including Zingiber cassumunar Roxb, Croton oblongifolius Roxb, Curcuma longa L., Blumea balsamifera (L.) DC. and Curcuma aromatica Salisb., promote the mother's health via anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities.

Conclusion and recommendation: Medicinal herbs commonly used by folk healers are in line with scientific principles. Thus, further studies both in the laboratory and clinical trials should be undertaken to develop herbal medicines for postpartum care.

Factors Predicting Behaviors on Using Herbal Medicines to Relieve Musculoskeletal Disorders Pain among the Elderly in Nong Chang District, Uthai Thani Province

Nutcha Riwpitak, Rung Wongwat — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: The important health problems of older persons are musculoskeletal disorders (MSD), including pain, which is commonly treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, whose side effect is acute kidney failure with a rising trend. Therefore, they should be encouraged to use herbal medicines or drugs instead to reduce side effects and treatment costs. This predictive research aimed to explore behaviors on using herbal drugs and the factors predicting behaviors on using herbal drugs to relieve MSD pain among elderly persons in Nong Chang district, Uthai Thani province.

Methods: Predictive research design was used in this study. The study involved a sample of 396 older persons with MSD pain, selected using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and then analyzed with descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression analysis.

Results: Among the elderly respondents, their attitudes towards herbal drugs, perceived susceptibility of MSD pain, perceived severity of pain, perceived herbal drug benefits, perceived barriers to herbal drug use and having a role model with herbal drug use were at a high level, while the knowledge about herbal drugs, cues to herbal drug use, receipt of herbal drug information and receipt of health personnel’s advice were at a moderate level, and behaviors related to herbal drug use were at a low level. The factors predicting the behaviors on herbal drug use to relieve MSD pain the most were perceived MSD pain severity (β=0.345), followed by herbal drug use experiences (β=0.300), perceived herbal drug benefits (β=0.298), receipt of herbal drug information (β=0.122), having a role model in herbal drug use (β=0.108), underlining medical conditions (β=-0.076), income sufficiency (β=-0.091), perceived MSD pain susceptibility (β=-0.101), and perceived herbal drug use barriers (β=-0.249). These nine factors could 54.7% collectively and significantly predict the behaviors on herbal drug use for relieving MSD pain (P = 0.05).

Discussion: Elderly people’s behaviors on herbal drug use were at a low level probably due to the lack of perception and information about herbal drugs, and the lack of herbal drug use experiences.

Conclusion and recommendation: Based on the study results, community hospitals and subdistrict or tambon health promoting hospitals should accord importance to raising the perceived herbal drug benefits, perceived barriers to herbal drug use, perceived susceptibility and severity of MSD pain, and receipt of herbal drug information, as well as proactive working approach in the community to increase access to herbal drugs for the elderly.

Development of Electronic Book (E-book) on Foot Massage

Nitirat Meekai, Duangjan Sarakot, Paweesuda Punpeng, Kanoknan Lasongmuang — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and Objective: Currently, massage therapy education on foot reflexology is incorporated
into various educational institutions that offer instruction in Thai traditional medicine (TTM). The aforementioned reasons have prompted the research team to conceive the idea of developing an electronic book (e-book) on foot reflexology. The aim is to stimulate interest and enhance learning among students, increasing their knowledge and understanding of the science of foot massage. The objectives of this study are (1) to develop an e-book on foot reflexology and (2) to assess the quality of the e-book on foot reflexology.

Methods: The research team reviewed the literature and analyzed the content from textbooks on foot massage for use in the design and development of an e-book on foot massage. The draft e-book’s quality was assessed by seven experts who are knowledgeable about and teachers of foot massage. Based on the experts’ advice, the e-book was revised/finalized accordingly. Statistics used to analyze the data were mean, percentage and standard deviation.

Results: The quality assessment showed the overall results at a good level (Mean = 4.09, S.D. = 0.95),
the efficiency at a good level (Mean = 4.45, S.D. = 0.75), the language at a good level (Mean = 4.33, S.D. = 0.55),
the content at a good level (Mean = 3.87, S.D. = 1.51) and the images/videos at a good level (Mean = 4.73, S.D. = 1.01).

Discussion: The newly developed e-book on foot massage will be a guideline for instructional development in the Bachelor of Thai Traditional Medicine program or for studies on Thai traditional medicine.

Conclusion and Recommendation: Based on the e-book’s quality assessment conducted by TTM experts
in four aspects (content, language, images/videos, and efficiency), the qualities were at a good level. Thus, the
e-book may serve as a guideline for the development of teaching materials in the TTM curriculum or program, or for studies on Thai traditional medicine. This is particularly relevant as current teaching documents, textbooks, and references have been in use for a long time, and some content or language may be outdated. To enhance student engagement, there should be a focus on developing textbooks and instructional media with modern and up-to-date content, incorporating visuals, audio, video, and contemporary language to align with the current societal context.

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Editor's Note

Vichai Chokevivat — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Quality Control and Antioxidant Activities of Ya Mor Harak Herbal Formula

Yupaporn Wichian, Navaporn Pimrat, Kriyapa Lairungruang — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introductions and Objectives: Ya Mor Harak (YMH), a herbal formula, is used for purgative and antipyretic
purposes according to a Subdistrict Traditional Medicine Textbook (Tamra Phaet Tambon, Vol. 3). In the
past, there were no studies on the YMH formula. Therefore, the aims of this study were to identify indicators or markers for quality control of herbs, including phytochemical screening, total phenolic content, chemical identity and antioxidant activities of YMH extracts.

Methods: The YMH extraction was undertaken using three solvents: deionized water (A YMH), 70% ethanol
(70E YMH) and 95% ethanol (95E YMH). The YMH quality control measures included the analyses for moisture,
total ash and acid insoluble ash, as well as YMH extract’s phytochemical screening, chemical identification (using thin layer chromatography, TLC) and antioxidant activity quantification using DPPH, FRAP and ABTS assays.

Results: Alkaloids, terpenoids, anthraquinones and tannins were found in the YMH formula. Its 70E extract
had the highest total phenolic content at 180.92 ± 3.46 mg GAE/g extract and showed the highest antioxidant activities with the DPPH assay at EC50 7.28 ± 0.72 μg/mL and the FRAP assay at 306.81 ± 1.57 mg Trolox/g extract and 486.64 ± 2.49 mg Fe2+/g extract. And the A YMH extract showed the highest elimination of free radical ABTS+•(EC50 = 19.84 ± 4.85 μg/mL), while the chemical identification using TLC found 17 bands on the TLC plate.

Discussion: Aqueous YMH extract showed the best antioxidant activity using the ABTS assay, which was
consistent with the ABTS’ water-soluble property. The 70E YMH extract had the best antioxidant activity with the DPPH assay, which was consistent with the DPPS’ ethanol-soluble property.

Conclusion and Recommendation: A YMH decoction with water imitating the traditional method has
antioxidant activities. In the future, other pharmacological activities and specified chemical identification should be studied for further development of YMH for patient treatments.

Development of Bartunita Aromatherapy Oil to Help Relieve Pain and Stiffness in the Lower Muscles Among Farmers

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: Low back pain is a serious symptom as its impact will decrease the patient's quality of life. In Thailand’s three southern border provinces, there are plenty of Strobilanthes crispa Blume trees, locally known as bartunita or Hin Fa Laep trees and used as medicinal plants. The plant is rich in chemical compounds essentially used for pain relief and as an anti-inflammatory drug. Therefore, the researcher is interested in developing an aroma oil with the main ingredient being bartunita leaves to help relieve lower back pain and stiffness among farmers.

Methods: The research was conducted in three stages: Step1: Determine the situation of lower back pain. A purposive sampling method was used for recruiting 14 participants. A questionnaire and group discussions were employed for data collection. Step2: Develop bartunita aroma oil from eight herbs. Step3: Explore the efficacy of and satisfaction with the bartunita aroma oil by assessing the pain levels before and after using aromatherapy oil in 27 participants. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to analyze the data, and descriptive statistics were used to determine patient satisfaction.

Results: Among the participants, most of them (77.8%) had low back pain and stiffness caused by occupations. Furthermore, previously used packages were too big and difficult to utilize. After using the bartunita aroma oil, the lower back pain level dropped significantly compared with before (P = 0.05). Their satisfaction levels with the product's quality and style were high and highest, respectively.

Discussion: The developed bartunita aroma oil contained eight herbal extracts or products from ginger, cloves, black sesame, bergamot essential oil, lavender essential oil, eucalyptus essential oil and coconut oil. In particular, the key ingredient was bartunita leaves obtained from bartunita plant in the family Acanthaceae, which has important properties for reducing muscle aches and inflammation. In addition, eucalyptus essential oil has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects. It is possible that the action of bartunita aroma oil on reducing lower back pain is likely due to the activities and chemical composition of all the ingredients used in the extraction of bartunita aroma oil.

Conclusion: Bartunita aroma oil can be used as a therapeutic option for people with lower back pain. It can also be utilized as a starting point for developing aromatherapy oils to assist in decreasing pain and stiffness in various sections of the body.

The Legend of Ya Hoksing in Singkhranakhon Town and the Search for the Possibility of Using the Drug for COVID-19 Treatment

ketkanok pongnuruk, Ketsuda Pongnuruk, Wanchai Dhammasaccakarn — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: Ya Hoksing, a folk/local medicine of the southern region originating in the old city of Singkhranakhon, is used by southerners for self-healthcare when there was an epidemic in the past. The medicinal properties of Ya Hoksing (six-herb decoction) are for relieving fever due to meningococcal disease, influenza, herpes simplex, shingles, erysipelas, smallpox, and sangwan phra-in fever. When there is an epidemic in every era, many people died, including the doctors who treated them. So, there was a need to invent a treatment formula and preserve it until the present day. Ya Hoksing is a decoction of six herbal roots for the patients to drink. This study aimed to gather the knowledge and relevant textbooks on Ya Hoksing for the treatment of COVID-19, based on folk medical practices, and for promoting the preservation of local wisdom.

Methods: This documentary research involved the review of literature related to the history and textbooks of Ya Hoksing for the treatment of diseases in the past and the prevention of COVID-19, including research and academic articles as well as online databases related to the legend of Ya Hoksing and the inhibition of the COVID-19 virus. The study also involved in-depth interviews aiming to seek the knowledge and the process of experience transfer from those who had experiences in the utilization of herbs in the study area.

Results: In the study and collection of knowledge from the textbook on Ya Hoksing for the treatment of COVID-19, the folk medicine was used in the past for treating meningococcal fever, influenza, herpes simplex, shingles, erysipelas and smallpox; all the patients were cured. As a result, the drug has become a legend and is still being used during the COVID-19 pandemic. The knowledge and wisdom have been passed on to youth in the community from generation to generation; and awareness has been raised for the youth about the conservation and cherishing of such local resources. The study of Ya Hoksing is part of the development of Thai traditional and alternative medicine so that it meets international standards and quality criteria.

Discussion: As per the legend of Ya Hoksing in the old town of Singkhranakhon and the search for the possibility of using the herbal drug against COVID-19, in the past folk healers used medicinal herbs to enhance immunity and strength of the body. As there were no modern medicines in the past, herbal drugs needed to be used for healthcare and the treatment of illnesses in the community, especially toxic fever, meningococcal fever, or viral infections. At present, the knowledge and textbooks on Ya Hoksing have been gathered and passed on to the following generations for a long time. According to the review and analysis of research results on the treatment of diseases and inhibition of viral growth with Ya Hoksing, the herbal drug has been found to help relieve illness symptoms with a good anti-inflammatory property.

Conclusion and recommendation: According to the study, the data on the Ya Hoksing formula can be used for further studies on herbal medicines especially their biological activities in the laboratory and clinical settings. The purpose is to develop the knowledge of Thai herbs in public health work and for use as guidelines on the establishment of herbal drug formulas for Thai traditional medicine practitioners.

Assessing Total Phenolic Contents, Total Flavonoid Contents, and Antioxidant Activities of Selected Ya Ayuwatthana Formulas for COVID-19 Prophylaxis

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

Introduction and objective: The COVID-19 virus remains a pressing global health concern, and its existing preventive measures are not foolproof. Additionally, post-COVID complications are still a possibility. Traditional medicine texts contain Ya Ayuwatthana (herbal elixir) formulas, designed to boost the body’s defences and prevent illness,^[1] presenting a compelling avenue for infection prevention research. This study aimed to identify and select Ya Ayuwatthana formulas for analyses to determine their total phenolic contents, flavonoid contents and antioxidant properties.

Methods: For this experimental research, the drug formula selection process was guided by the following criteria: (1) inclusion of indications for treating COVID-19 symptoms in the formulas; (2) utilization of ingredients previously studied for their potential effects on COVID-19 prevention or treatment; (3) precise specification of ingredient portions and quantities in the formulas; and (4) utilization of readily available herbs with botanically recognized sources. And subsequently, the total phenolic contents, total flavonoid contents, and antioxidant activities were determined using the DPPH, FRAP, and ORAC assays for the selected formula extracts.

Results: Based on the specified criteria, two Ya Ayuwatthana formulas (AYW-KK-01 and AYW-KK-02) were identified and selected. For both formulas, the aqueous extracts of AYW-KK-01 and AYW-KK-02 exhibited the highest total phenolic contents (356.16±3.18 and 370.05±3.65 mgGAE/g extract) and total flavonoid contents (41.41±0.36 and 38.13±0.32 mgQE/g extract). Furthermore, methanol extracts of both formulas demonstrated the most substantial antioxidant activities in the DPPH assay (IC₅₀ = 5.47±0.06 and 4.55±0.06 μg/mL), the FRAP assay (188.30±3.53 and 193.20±1.06 mgTE/g extract) and the ORAC assay (232.25±4.22 and 302.57±4.30 mgTE/g extract).

Discussion: Methanol extracts of both formulas displayed the highest antioxidant properties, potentially valuable for disease prevention. Previous research has revealed a correlation between high blood antioxidant levels and the reduction of severity of viral infections including COVID-19.

Conclusion and recommendation: These outcomes highlight the promising biological properties of extracts from AYW-KK-01 and AYW-KK-02 formulas, particularly when polar solvents are employed. The data were important for future investigations and developments of health-promoting medications aimed at preventing COVID-19.

Monograph of Select Thai Material Medica: CHUMHET THET-BAI

Subcommittee on the Preparation of Monographs of Selected Thai Materia Medical — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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Dictionary of Traditional Chinese Medicine Volume 2 (Chinese-Thai-English) (17)

Tawat Buranatawonsom; Xiaotao Wang ; Suchada Anotayanonth — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0700

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