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Knowledge of genetic diversity is one of the most essential tasks for sustainable management of medicinal plants. In the present study, the molecular variability and population structure in a set of Ferula assafoetida accessions collected from different geographical regions of Iran were evaluated using start codon targeted polymorphism (SCoT) and universal rice primer (URP) markers. Based on results, SCoT (12 primers) and URP (12 primers) markers amplified 192 and 149 polymorphic fragments, respectively. The polymorphism information content (PIC) estimated by URP and SCoT ranged from 0.31 to 0.43, and 0.34 to 0.44, respectively. The analysis of molecular variance revealed the greater genetic variation within population compared to among them. The Kerman's population showed the highest values for the heterozygosity (He), percentage of polymorphic bands (PPB), Shannon's information index (I), and effective number of alleles (Ne). The neighbor joining (NJ) clustering algorithm grouped all investigated accessions into six and five main groups based on URP and SCoT data, respectively. The results of structure analysis based on both marker systems showed that all accessions were divided into five subpopulations. Furthermore, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) supported these findings. In conclusion, our results revealed a high level of genetic diversity and gene flow between F. assafoetida populations. Moreover, the SCoT markers were more effective than URP in detecting the genetic diversity in F. assafoetida populations. Hence, the use of SCoT markers in further genetic research such as genetic fingerprinting and association analysis would be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asafoetida is an oleo–gum‐resin mainly obtained from Ferula foetida in eastern Iran, which is employed for the treatment of stomachaches, acid reflux, nervous system disorders and respiratory diseases. Asafoetida has attracted the attention of researchers due to its sulfide compounds and their proven effects on respiratory illnesses. In this study, the shelf stability of supplement of F. foetida's oleo–gum‐resin by quantifying two key sulfide compounds including E/Z‐sec‐butyl propenyl disulfane and E/Z‐(methylthio)propyl 1‐propenyl disulfane was evaluated by 1H NMR (qH NMR) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The similar results were obtained in both qH NMR and GC–MS methods. The qH NMR method showed good linearity in the ranges of 2–12 mg/mL for E/Z‐sec‐butyl propenyl disulfane and 2.2–17 mg/mL for E/Z‐(methylthio) propyl 1‐propenyl disulfane with a correlation coefficient of 0.99 and acceptable stability (RSD% ≤ 2.72%) for the quantification of the compounds. Therefore, despite the volatility of disulfide compounds and according to the results, the qH NMR method could be considered adequate method for quantifying these compounds in supplements containing the volatile components that requires extra extraction steps before analyses by other method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility and endocrine disorders in women of childbearing age. In Persian medicine, Ferula assafoetida L. (Asafoetida) was recommended for treating PCOS. The present study was conducted to compare the effect of Asafoetida with oral contraceptive tablets on PCOS patients.Materials and Methods: Patients with PCOS (n=30) were enrolled in a double-blind randomized clinical trial. On Day 5 of the menstrual cycle, patients received two periods of 21-day treatment, with 7 days rest between the two treatments. On a daily basis, half of the patients (n=15) received Asafoetida (1 g), and the rest received low dose oral contraceptive (LD; one tablet). Menstrual status, anthropometric characteristics, hematology and biochemistry parameters, ovarian ultrasound examination and hirsutism were evaluated prior to the initiation of the experiment and 14 days after the end of treatment. The occurrence of menstrual cycles and pregnancy was assessed eight months after the end of treatment.Results: The incidence of pregnancy was greater in patients who received Asafoetida compared to those who received LD (p=0.019). The time intervals between menstrual cycles became shorter in both groups (p

Objective: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of infertility and endocrine disorders in women of childbearing age. In Persian medicine, Ferula assafoetida L. (Asafoetida) was recommended for treating PCOS. The present study was conducted to compare the effect of Asafoetida with oral contraceptive tablets on PCOS patients. Materials and Methods: Patients with PCOS (n=30) were enrolled in a double-blind randomized clinical trial. On Day 5 of the menstrual cycle, patients received two periods of 21-day treatment, with 7 days rest between the two treatments. On a daily basis, half of the patients (n=15) received Asafoetida (1 g), and the rest received low dose oral contraceptive (LD; one tablet). Menstrual status, anthropometric characteristics, hematology and biochemistry parameters, ovarian ultrasound examination and hirsutism were evaluated prior to the initiation of the experiment and 14 days after the end of treatment. The occurrence of menstrual cycles and pregnancy was assessed eight months after the end of treatment. Results: The incidence of pregnancy was greater in patients who received Asafoetida compared to those who received LD (p=0.019). The time intervals between menstrual cycles became shorter in both groups (p<0.05). The occurrence of regular menstrual cycles remained longer in the Asafoetida compared to the LD group (p=0.001). Concentrations of triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL and LDL were significantly increased after treating with LD (p<0.05). Conclusion: In PCOS patients, the occurrence of regular menstrual cycles and the incidence of pregnancy were improved following treatment with Asafoetida. This medicament could be considered a safe treatment for patients with PCOS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dental caries is a disease which results in progressive destruction of the tooth and gradually leads to sensitivity or pain in that tooth, i.e., toothache the prevalence of which is about 49%–83% worldwide. There are various causes for orofacial pain, of which toothache is quite common. When severe, its unbearable and extremely disturbing for the patient, hence, considered as dental emergency. As per Ayurveda, Krimidanta has clinical features similar to dental caries. Various treatment procedures are mentioned to manage Krimidanta janya-shoola (pain due to dental caries), of which one is the topical placement of Koshna (warm) Hingu over the affected tooth. Materials and Methods: An interventional study was done for which patients were selected from the outpatient department and inpatient department of Shalakya Tantra and were randomly divided into two Groups A and B. Group A was asked to topically place Koshna Hingu (warm asafoetida) at the site of Krimidanta janya shoola three times a day for 3 days and Group B was advised to take paracetamol (acetaminophen) three times a day for 3 days. A total of 30 patients were enrolled in the study and all of them completed the treatment. Results and Conclusion: The study showed that both Hingu and tablet paracetamol were effective in managing the pain caused due to dental caries, although the results were slightly better for the group which was given Hingu topically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Giardia lamblia is the protozoan agent of giardiasis and is one of the most common causes of diarrhea worldwide, especially in Iran. Nowadays, drugs such as metronidazole, furazolidone, tinidazole, and quinacrine are used to treat giardiasis. These drugs have different side effects, so research to find a drug with few side effects seems necessary. Asafoetida, an oleo gum resin obtained from an Iranian endemic herb, Ferula Assa-foetida has many healing properties, especially in the treatment of parasitic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Asafoetida hydroalcoholic extract on the G. lamblia in vivo in mice. In this experimental study, 25 mice were divided into 5 groups of 5 including negative control, drug control with metronidazole, and 3 experimental groups treated with Asafoetida extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/mL. Then, the effect of Asafoetida hydroalcoholic extract up to the tenth day was evaluated. In this study, the weight of mice in the groups treated with hydroalcoholic extract of Asafoetida was lower than the control group that did not take any drugs. The effect of plant extract against G. lamblia showed that the reduction in the number of cysts in the groups of 100, 200, and 400 mg/mL was equal to 71.8%, 80.9%, and 93%, respectively (p

Giardia lamblia is the protozoan agent of giardiasis and is one of the most common causes of diarrhea worldwide, especially in Iran. Nowadays, drugs such as metronidazole, furazolidone, tinidazole, and quinacrine are used to treat giardiasis. These drugs have different side effects, so research to find a drug with few side effects seems necessary. Asafoetida, an oleo gum resin obtained from an Iranian endemic herb, Ferula Assa-foetida has many healing properties, especially in the treatment of parasitic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Asafoetida hydroalcoholic extract on the G. lamblia in vivo in mice. In this experimental study, 25 mice were divided into 5 groups of 5 including negative control, drug control with metronidazole, and 3 experimental groups treated with Asafoetida extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/mL. Then, the effect of Asafoetida hydroalcoholic extract up to the tenth day was evaluated. In this study, the weight of mice in the groups treated with hydroalcoholic extract of Asafoetida was lower than the control group that did not take any drugs. The effect of plant extract against G. lamblia showed that the reduction in the number of cysts in the groups of 100, 200, and 400 mg/mL was equal to 71.8%, 80.9%, and 93%, respectively (p<0.05). The results of this study showed that Asafoetida has very good antigiardial effects on in vivo conditions and can be considered as one of the treatment options for the treatment of giardiasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of the broad biological and also anticarcinogenic effects which have been reported for galbanic acid in various studies, its toxic effects are not still well characterized. The study was accomplished to evaluate the acute oral toxicity of galbanic acid pursuant to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) TG No. 425. Female rats were received asafoetida extract and galbanic acid in distilled water by oral gavage. According to the existing information, limit test was done for aqueous extract of asafoetida and main test was done for galbanic acid. The animals were monitored for 2 weeks. Then under general anesthesia, the blood samples were obtained from the heart for biochemical and hematological assessment and the vital organs of rats were isolated for pathological evaluation. The results showed that although the Median lethal dose (LD50) of asafoetida extract was above the 2000 mg/kg body weight, the galbanic acid estimated LD50 was 310.2 mg/kg. There was no considerable change in body weight of vehicle and extract treated animals but in galbanic acid treated animals, the body weights were not normally increased. A significant rise was observed in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), (aspartate aminotransferase) AST and (alanine aminotransferase) ALT levels as well as in white blood cells (WBC), platelet and lymphocytes counts in galbanic acid group compared to vehicle and extract groups. Based on the obtained results, we suggest that although the asafoetida aqueous extract could be categorized as group 5 (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg), but galbanic acid estimated LD50 is about 310.2 mg/kg and toxicity signs also appeared in lung, liver enzymes and complete blood count (CBC) of galbanic acid treated animals.

Introduction: Climate changes and indiscriminate harvesting as well as overgrazing of different Iranian rangelands have caused the destruction and reduction of vegetation in the rangelands. This has been especially severe for medicinal plants, in the last decade. By identifying the plant communities and analyzing the ecological nature of each species, it is possible to plan for optimal management based on ecological principles for the present and the future. Based on the above-mentioned issues, the current research was conducted regarding the ecological evaluation of cultivating medicinal plants in different rangelands of Lorestan Province through analytic hierarchy process (AHP) approach and ArcGIS software in order to restore the rangelands and protect the medicinal plants.Material and methods: The studied area was the rangelands class 1 of Lorestan Province in the west of Iran. Required data included soil, long-term climatic (1970-2020), and topographic data. Climatic and topographical data were obtained from the WorldClim database. Soil data were gathered by the International Soil Reference and Information Centre (ISRIC). Studied medicinal plants were Asafoetida, Galbanum, Liquorice, Keluss, and Borago Oxtongue flower. The judgment of 15 experts was used for pairwise comparisons and weighting of ecological data for each medicinal plant using the Delphi method, and the weight of each of the options and criteria was calculated in Expert Choice11 software. Then, to match the environmental requirements of the medicinal plants with the characteristics of the rangelands, the natural breaks –(Jenks) classification method was employed in ArcGIS software.Results and discussion: The results showed the major role of annual mean temperature with a weighting coefficient of 0.309 in cultivating medicinal plants, followed by elevation and annual cumulative rainfall (0.212). Also, among the studied factors, the lowest weight belonged to soil organic carbon percentage (0.057). For annual mean temperature, more than 53% of rangelands in Lorestan Province experienced a temperature between 10 and 15 °C. The rangelands received an average of 350 mm. More than 60% of the rangelands were located at an elevation between 2000 and 3000 m. For slope, more than 54% of rangelands had a slope between 25 and 60%. The soil of Lorestan rangelands had a heavy texture, so that more than 75% of the rangelands had clay loam soil texture. More than 59% of the rangelands had soil organic carbon of 2-5%. Also, more than 74% of the rangelands had a pH between 7.7 and 7.9. Also, the rangelands were divided into three classes (very good, good, and medium) in terms of potential and having suitable ecological conditions for growing Asafoetida, Galbanum, Liquorice, Keluss, and Borago Oxtongue flowers. Ninety-eight, 97, and 94% of the rangelands were placed in the very good and good categories for cultivating Asafoetida, Galbanum, and Keluss, respectively. However, these values were 26 and 27% for planting Liquorice and Borago Oxtongue flower, respectively.Conclusion: Overall, the rangelands of Lorestan Province had a good potential for growing Asafoetida, Galbanum, and Keluss, and they had a medium potential for cultivating Liquorice and Borago Oxtongue flowers. However, the suitability of medicinal plants cultivation varied based on the geographical position of the rangelands, and the recommendation for cultivating each medicinal plant should be considered according to each geographical zone.

Introduction: Climate changes and indiscriminate harvesting as well as overgrazing of different Iranian rangelands have caused the destruction and reduction of vegetation in the rangelands. This has been especially severe for medicinal plants, in the last decade. By identifying the plant communities and analyzing the ecological nature of each species, it is possible to plan for optimal management based on ecological principles for the present and the future. Based on the above-mentioned issues, the current research was conducted regarding the ecological evaluation of cultivating medicinal plants in different rangelands of Lorestan Province through analytic hierarchy process (AHP) approach and ArcGIS software in order to restore the rangelands and protect the medicinal plants. Material and methods: The studied area was the rangelands class 1 of Lorestan Province in the west of Iran. Required data included soil, long-term climatic (1970-2020), and topographic data. Climatic and topographical data were obtained from the WorldClim database. Soil data were gathered by the International Soil Reference and Information Centre (ISRIC). Studied medicinal plants were Asafoetida, Galbanum, Liquorice, Keluss, and Borago Oxtongue flower. The judgment of 15 experts was used for pairwise comparisons and weighting of ecological data for each medicinal plant using the Delphi method, and the weight of each of the options and criteria was calculated in Expert Choice11 software. Then, to match the environmental requirements of the medicinal plants with the characteristics of the rangelands, the natural breaks -(Jenks) classification method was employed in ArcGIS software. Results and discussion: The results showed the major role of annual mean temperature with a weighting coefficient of 0.309 in cultivating medicinal plants, followed by elevation and annual cumulative rainfall (0.212). Also, among the studied factors, the lowest weight belonged to soil organic carbon percentage (0.057). For annual mean temperature, more than 53% of rangelands in Lorestan Province experienced a temperature between 10 and 15 °C. The rangelands received an average of 350 mm. More than 60% of the rangelands were located at an elevation between 2000 and 3000 m. For slope, more than 54% of rangelands had a slope between 25 and 60%. The soil of Lorestan rangelands had a heavy texture, so that more than 75% of the rangelands had clay loam soil texture. More than 59% of the rangelands had soil organic carbon of 2-5%. Also, more than 74% of the rangelands had a pH between 7.7 and 7.9. Also, the rangelands were divided into three classes (very good, good, and medium) in terms of potential and having suitable ecological conditions for growing Asafoetida, Galbanum, Liquorice, Keluss, and Borago Oxtongue flowers. Ninety-eight, 97, and 94% of the rangelands were placed in the very good and good categories for cultivating Asafoetida, Galbanum, and Keluss, respectively. However, these values were 26 and 27% for planting Liquorice and Borago Oxtongue flower, respectively. Conclusion: Overall, the rangelands of Lorestan Province had a good potential for growing Asafoetida, Galbanum, and Keluss, and they had a medium potential for cultivating Liquorice and Borago Oxtongue flowers. However, the suitability of medicinal plants cultivation varied based on the geographical position of the rangelands, and the recommendation for cultivating each medicinal plant should be considered according to each geographical zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nematode–microbe symbiosis plays a key role in determining pathogenesis against pests. The modulation of symbiotic bacteria may affect the virulence of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and the biological management of pests. We tested the influence of asafoetida (ASF) extract on the virulence of Steinernema carpocapsae and its symbiotic bacterium, Xenorhabdus nematophila, in Pyrrhocoris apterus. A total of 100 mg of ASF killed 30% of EPNs in 48 h, while P. apterus remained unaffected. The EPNs pre-treated with 100 mg of ASF influenced P. apterus's mortality by 24–91.4% during a period of 24 to 72 h. The topical application of ASF acted as a deterrent to S. carpocapsae, lowering host invasion to 70% and delaying infectivity with 30% mortality for 168 h. Interestingly, Steinernema's symbiotic bacterium, Xenorhabdus, remained unaffected by ASF. An in vitro turbidity test containing 100 mg of ASF in a medium increased the growth rate of Xenorhabdus compared to a control. A disc diffusion assay confirmed the non-susceptibility of Xenorhabdus to ASF compared to a positive control, streptomycin. Pro-phenol oxidase (PPO) and phenol oxidase (PO) upregulation showed that ASF influences immunity, while EPN/ASF showed a combined immunomodulatory effect in P. apterus. We report that ASF modulated the virulence of S. carpocapsae but not that of its symbiotic bacterium, X. nematophila, against P. apterus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the results of researches have exhibited that Omicron sub-lineages BA.4 and BA.5, evaluated to BA.1 and BA.2, deserted neutralization from sera of triple vaccinated particulars to a bigger extension. Therefore, a novel wave of Omicron virus has appeared driven by BA.4 & BA.5 subvariants. Nanocarriers contain carbon atoms with functional nanostructures, which not only help the improved mechanical properties but also indicate the bioactivities for regulating cell status. In this research, asafoetida as a medicinal plant can be applied in treatment for Omicron subvariants BA.4 and BA.5 through adsorbing of its effective compound of ferulic acid on the surface of (6,6) armchair single-walled carbon nanotube as the drug delivery model due to direct electron transfer principle which has been studied by density functional theory (DFT) methods. On the other hand, it has been accomplished the B3LYP/6-311+G (d,p) level of theory to evaluate the aptitude of SWCNT for adsorbing effective compound in asafoetida medicinal plant through nuclear magnetic resonance and thermodynamic parameters. In fact, the achieved results have represented that the feasibility of using (6,6) armchair SWCNT and ferulic acid becomes the norm in drug delivery system which has been attained by quantum calculations due to physico-chemical properties of NMR, IR and UV-VIS spectroscopy. Besides, the energy gap analysis of HOMO-LUMO has illustrated the charge distribution in the frontier molecular orbitals of ferulic acid in asafoetida drug through adsorption on the surface of (6,6) armchair carbon nanotube (CNT). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Asafoetida is a gum derived from Ferula assa-foetida, which is used in traditional Iranian medicine to treat some reproductive system disorders. The effects of asafoetida on ovarian tissue, expression of certain genes associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and levels of liver, kidney, and blood cell factors after treatment in a rat model were investigated. Methods: Thirty rats were divided into five groups: normal, polycystic, and treatment with three doses of asafoetida (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg for 3 weeks after PCOS induction). PCOS was induced by letrozole at a dose of 1 mg/kg administered orally for 3 weeks. Blood samples were taken, and the ovaries were removed and prepared for histomorphometric examination. Liver and kidney parameters were measured. The mRNA expression levels of luteinizing hormone receptor, CYP11A1, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, adiponectin, and adiponectin receptors 1 and 2 were also measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: The levels of liver, kidney, and blood parameters did not significantly differ between the treatment groups and the control group. At doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg, ovarian histopathology, especially the thicknesses of the theca and granulosa layers, was significantly improved relative to the PCOS group. The expression of target genes also improved in the 25 and 50 mg/kg treatment groups. Conclusion: Asafoetida can be used to treat PCOS as a complementary approach to conventional therapies. Asafoetida appears to act by regulating and activating metabolic and ovarian cycle enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nematode–microbe symbiosis plays a key role in determining pathogenesis against pests. The modulation of symbiotic bacteria may affect the virulence of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and the biological management of pests. We tested the influence of asafoetida (ASF) extract on the virulence of Steinernema carpocapsae and its symbiotic bacterium, Xenorhabdus nematophila, in Pyrrhocoris apterus. A total of 100 mg of ASF killed 30% of EPNs in 48 h, while P. apterus remained unaffected. The EPNs pre-treated with 100 mg of ASF influenced P. apterus’s mortality by 24–91.4% during a period of 24 to 72 h. The topical application of ASF acted as a deterrent to S. carpocapsae, lowering host invasion to 70% and delaying infectivity with 30% mortality for 168 h. Interestingly, Steinernema’s symbiotic bacterium, Xenorhabdus, remained unaffected by ASF. An in vitro turbidity test containing 100 mg of ASF in a medium increased the growth rate of Xenorhabdus compared to a control. A disc diffusion assay confirmed the non-susceptibility of Xenorhabdus to ASF compared to a positive control, streptomycin. Pro-phenol oxidase (PPO) and phenol oxidase (PO) upregulation showed that ASF influences immunity, while EPN/ASF showed a combined immunomodulatory effect in P. apterus. We report that ASF modulated the virulence of S. carpocapsae but not that of its symbiotic bacterium, X. nematophila, against P. apterus.

Introduction: It has been documented that oxidative stress and inflammation are the main causes of diabetic-induced disorders. Several studies have been reported the antioxidant and antidiabetic effects of prepared asafoetida extracts, from Ferula assa-foetida L. species in the Apiaceae family. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of enriched-asafoetida diet (EAD) 0.5% and 2% on plasma level of glucose, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), insulin, lipid profile and hepatic enzymes, and vascular endothelial dysfunction induced by type 2 diabetes (T2D). Methods: Thirty-two male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: 1) control group, 2) diabetic group, 3 and 4) diabetic groups received EAD0.5% and EAD2% for 4 weeks, respectively. T2D was induced by intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide and streptozotocin. At the end of the experiment, the plasma level of glucose, lipid profile, insulin, oxidative stress, hepatic enzymes and vascular dysfunction were evaluated. Results: Fasting blood sugar, HbA1C, oxidative stress and hepatic enzymes significantly decreased and plasma level of insulin markedly increased in the EAD0.5 compared to the diabetic group. The plasma lipid profile was improved in the EAD0.5 group. The response of thoracic aorta rings to vasodilators and vasoconstrictor substances was considerably improved in EAD0.5 than in the diabetic group. The EAD2 did not have a significant effect on diabetic induced disorders. Conclusion: The results of the present study suggest that the effects of EAD on biological disorders caused by T2D are dependent on the percentage of asafoetida in the diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asafoetida and sagapenum as valuable Iranian oleo-gum-resins from Ferula spp. (F. assa-foetida, F. persica, F. foetida and F. alliacea) have received interest during the history for producing valuable perfumes and common spices or as pharmaceutical agents. The aim of the present work was to characterize sources of asafoetida and sagapenum, according to botanical aspects, traditional and conventional medicine and phytochemical data. Available publications have been gathered from databases up to May 2019, and common Persian literatures were reviewed. We showed that sources for asafoetida and sagapenum should be differentiated botanically according to basal leaves, size of rays, fruits and petals. Furthermore, despite similarities, volatile sulfur components in F. assa-foetida are disulphides, in F. persica tri/tetra/pentasulphides, and in F. alliacea trisulphides. In the case of coumarins, conferol, conferone, farnesiferol A and B, samarcandin and samarcandin acetate are so far reported from F. assa-foetida and F. persica, and asacoumarin A from F. assa-foetida and F. foetida samples; while, persicaosides A-D have been reported only from F. persica. Moreover, farnesiferol C as the major coumarin in F. assa-foetida and mogoltavidin in F. persica would be new pharmacopeia markers. However, coumarins and essential oils similarities and differences among Ferula species should be more studied in a comparative research. Such studies would be essential for determining reliable sources and minimum requirements for standardizations of worldwide valuable wild growing medicinal and economical plants.

Umbilical hernia is a very commonly encountered condition. Conservative management suffices in most of the cases. However, the complications such as incarceration, rupture with evisceration are extremely rare and warrants emergency surgery. We present the rare case of a 40-day-old female infant with ruptured umbilical hernia following ulceration due to the local application of Asafoetida paste. While many medicinal uses of Asafoetida have been reported in the past literature, there has been no mention of any complication due to its local application. Our patient was successfully managed with emergency mini-laparotomy and resection of approximately 40 cm of gangrenous small bowel with primary anastomosis. The patient has been attaining normal growth patterns on follow-up.

Agroforestry has been implementing for a long time in Zagros forests. Understory cultivation of Cultivating perennial plants (such as Ferula assa-foetida) rather than annual plants (such as Triticum spp) may help to reduce the soil loss. This research aims to evaluate the financial profitability and soil loss resulting from two alternative agroforestry practices of forest-asafoetida and forest-wheat in Tang-sorkh region of Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province. Financial analysis was performed using a cash flow diagram, land expectation value (LEV), equivalent annual value (EAV) and annualized return on investment (ROI) criteria. The annual soil loss was calculated using a universal soil loss equation based on rainfall erosivity, erodibility, the length, and the slope of the land, as well as the type of vegetation management. The soil conservation data were collected and measured in landform units. The soil samples were collected at (0-30cm) and (30-50cm) of landform units within the agroforestry practices areas. Economic information was compiled using the farmers' census method and the semi-structured questionnaire. The results showed that the annualized ROI in the forest- Asafoetida practice (32.6 %) is by far much higher than forest-wheat practice (-7 %). In addition, the results indicated that the average of soil erosion in forest-wheat practice (18.5 t ha-1 yr-1) is 6.6 times higher than the forest-assafoetida practice (2.8 t ha-1 yr-1). Future research will explain why farmers continue to apply loss-making forest-wheat practice.

Objective: Previous studies reported that asafetida from Ferula assa-foetida Linn. species and its essential oil (AEO) have antioxidant effects. In the present study, the effect of AEO was evaluated on ischemic-reperfusion injury in isolated rat hearts. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into 6 groups: 1) control group, 2) vehicle group, 3-5) AEO groups and, 6) carvedilol group. In the control group, hearts were only subjected to 30-min global ischemia followed by 120-min reperfusion. Hearts in other groups were perfused with vehicle (Tween 0.1%), AEO (0.125, 0.25 or 0.50 µL/g heart) or carvedilol (10 µM) for 5 min immediately before the induction of ischemia. Results: Compared to the control group, myocardial dysfunction was significantly more severe only in group 5 in which a significant increase in left ventricular end diastolic pressure and a significant decrease in left ventricular developed pressure and ±dp/dt. Also, the activities of lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase as the markers of myocardial injury were significantly higher only in group 5 compared to control group. The size of infarct and the incidence of irreversible fibrillation did not show any significant differences between the control group and groups 3-5. Conclusion: These results showed that perfusion of isolated rat hearts with AEO 0.5 µL/g heart, but not at lower concentrations, might worsen myocardial ischemic-reperfusion injury.

Background: Asafoetida is used as an antiulcer agent in Iran and Afghanistan. This study was undertaken to determine the healing of ulcers induced by indomethacin (IND) due to the protective role of asafoetida on ulcers in rats. Materials and Methods: Rats were divided into four groups with five rats in each group. One group only received IND as negative control group and other group received normal saline and considered as control group, respectively. Two groups were pretreated by asafoetida (25 and 50 mg/kg) by oral gavage for 4 days, and after this time, rats were kept fasted for 12 h and received IND at 48 mg/kg orally. Four hour later, animals were killed and their stomach and liver were fixed in formalin (10%) and sections of 5 μm in diameter were prepared. Histological and morphological characteristics of stomach and liver were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining. Results: Treatment groups with asafoetida (25 and 50 mg/kg) showed significant (P < 0.05) reduction in microscopic and macroscopic ulcer index as compared to the IND control group. Asafoetida promotes ulcer protection as ascertained histologically by comparatively decrease in ulcer areas, reduction or absence of edema and leukocytes infiltration of submucosal layer compared to IND control group. The results also indicated that asafoetida has a protective effect on liver tissues. In general, ameliorative effects of asafoetida in animals treated at 50 mg/kg were better than dose of 25 mg/kg, respectively. Conclusions: Data indicates that asafoetida has anti-ulcer and hepatoprotective activity that these beneficial effects may be or mainly related to anticholinergic antihistaminergic and antioxidant effects.

Objective: In this study, antiurolithiasic and hepatoprotective effects of Ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum-resin (asafoetida) were evaluated in Wistar rats. Methods: Negative control rats were provided with ethylene glycol (EG, 1%) in drinking water for 28 days. In treatment group, asafoetida was used simultaneously once daily for 28 days at the dose of 25 mg/kg. 8-h urine was collected from experimental animals at the end of the experiment. Urine level of creatinine, uric acid, urea, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, phosphorus, and serum level of transaminase (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were evaluated. In addition, histopathological changes in kidney and liver were stained in hematoxylin and eosin. Results: Asafoetida showed a significant effect on urine volume; water intake and urinary ionic parameters were altered by EG, which elevated the calcium and inorganic phosphate; and asafoetida significantly reduced the elevated levels of these ions. In addition, asafoetida significantly elevated the urinary concentration of magnesium. ALT, AST, LDH, and ALP were elevated by EG and asafoetida significantly reduced the elevated levels of these parameters. The histological findings also showed improvement after treatment with the asafoetida. Conclusion: The presented data indicate that administration of asafoetida prevented the growth of urinary stones and also have hepatoprotective effect in experimental EG nephrolithiasis in Wistar rats.

Asafoetida (Ferula asafoetida) also known as heeng, Devil's drug, ferula, food of Gods, incense of Devil, stinking gum is an important spice crop belonging to family Apiaceae. It is native to Iran and Afghanistan. Its dried latex (gum oleoresin) is generally used for flavouring curries, sauces, and pickles. Therapeutically, it stimulates the intestinal and respiratory tracts as well as the nervous system. It is beneficial in asthma, whooping cough, and chronic bronchitis. Its essential oil is also used in medicines, food and cosmetic industries. Besides, it is also used as an alternative for pesticides in organic farming. The major constituents of asafoetida are the resin (40- 64%), gum (25%) and essential oil (10-17%). The butyl propenyl disulphide is responsible for the aroma of asafoetida. The asaresinotannol is the major constituent present in the resin. It can be grown on unproductive cold deserts of dry temperate areas of Himalayas. It is mainly propagated by seeds. The seeds are sown either in winters or spring. It becomes ready for harvesting after 5 years of planting and yields around 900g per plant. The oleo gum resin and essential oil derived from this plant are sold at premium prices in the international market. The small and marginal farmers of Kinnaur, Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba can benefit from this new emerging crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ferula asafoetida is introduced as a valuable remedy for hysteria and some other nervous disorders in Iranian traditional medicine. Asafoetida is an oleo-gum-resin obtained from the exudates of the roots of the Ferula asafoetida. Previous studies have shown that this oleo gum resin has antioxidant, anti-apoptosis, and differentiation properties in the nervous system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of asafoetida on the death of oligodendrocytes and demyelination in male C57BL/6 mice in cuprizone (CPZ)-induced animal model of multiple sclerosis. Methods: Demyelination was induced by oral administration of rats with the 0.2% CPZ that was added to the usual diet for 8 weeks. Animals intraperitoneally received daily asafoetida at doses of 25 or 50 mg/kg of bodyweight simultaneously. At the end of the weeks, animal brains were removed and fixed to histological studies using Luxol fast blue staining. Asafoetida was screened for its antioxidant activity using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging assay and for its inhibitory activity against lipid peroxidation catalyzed by soybean lipoxygenase. Results: The results of this study showed that asafoetida significantly decreased infiltration rate in both groups of asafoetida 25 and 50 mg/kg, respectively (P < 0.01). Histological evaluations showed the lower demyelination in LFB in the group treated with asafoetida. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that asafoetida plays a neuro protective role in CPZ models of multiple sclerosis by reducing neuronal demyelination and oligodendrocytes death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptosporidium parvum is an important coccidian parasite that could infect the intestine, respiratory and biliary tracts of man and animals. This study aims to test the potential therapeutic and prophylactic effects of a natural herbal agent (Asafoetida) versus the nowadays drug of choice (Nitazoxanide). Fifty bred female, white Albino mice of CDI strain were divided into 5 groups; group I (GI): immunosuppressed, infected with C. parvum and treated with Asafoetida, group II (GII): immunosuppressed, prophylactically treated with Asafoetida for 7 days prior to infection, group III (GIII): immunosuppressed, infected and treated with Nitazoxanide, group IV (GIV): immunosuppressed and infected (Positive control), group V (GV): immunosuppressed and non infected (Negative control). Parasitological and histopatholgical examinations of the stool, ileocaecal and liver specimens were performed for the study groups. GI showed reduction of the mean oocyst count in stool with improvement of the pathological changes at the ileocaecal region with preservation of hepatic architecture. Results of GI were better than GII and GIV but not as good as GIII. GII showed the least improvement among the test groups. GIII showed the best response between the test groups. GIV show no statistical significant difference between the mean oocyst count in the mice stool at the time of infection and 7 days after infection. It was therefore concluded that Asafoetida is a promising natural therapeutic and prophylactic agent against cryptosporidiosis while, Nitazoxanide is the best chemotherapeutic agent against cryptosporidiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanobiotechnology is a fast developing scientific field having several applications in biochemistry, medicine, biology, engineering, etc. and plays a key role in the development and improvement of clean, eco-friendly, non-toxic and cost effective techniques for the synthesis and assembly of metal nanoparticles. One of the foremost green synthesis approaches includes biofabrication of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plants and plant products. In the present study, we have synthesized silver nanoparticles using aqueous extract of Indian spice Asafoetida. Their formation was confirmed through UV–Vis spectral peak at 426.4 nm and their stability was also monitored for 3 months at room temperature using dynamic light scattering (DLS). DLS analysis revealed that the particles so formed were not only monodispersed in nature but also stable at room temperature for 3 months with a reported size of 90–95 nm. The characterization techniques revealed that synthesized AgNPs were well distributed with size ranging from 90 to 100 nm. Furthermore, Asafoetida-AgNPs were tested for their anticancer activity against the HepG2 cell line. Cell viability assay was done to check the percentage of viable cells and morphological changes at various test concentrations (0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 ppm) after 24 and 48 h of exposure. The recorded viable cells at lowest concentration (0.01 ppm) was found to be 58.55% and at highest concentration (10 ppm) it was 40.08% after 24 h. Further, when the percent cell viability was observed at 48 h it was 45.22% and 20.23% at lowest and highest concentrations. Morphological characterization of HepG2 cells after the treatment of Asafoetida-AgNPs showed floating and patchy cells signifying their toxic nature against cancerous cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Asafoetida is a gum derived from Ferula assa-foetida, which is used in traditional Iranian medicine to treat some reproductive system disorders. The effects of asafoetida on ovarian tissue, expression of certain genes associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and levels of liver, kidney, and blood factors after treatment in a rat model were investigated. Methods and Materials: Thirty rats were divided into five groups: normal, polycystic, and treatment with three doses of asafoetida (12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg for 3 weeks after PCOS induction). PCOS was induced by letrozole at a dose of 1 mg/kg administered orally for 3 weeks. Blood samples were taken, and the ovaries were removed and prepared for histomorphometric examination. Liver and kidney parameters were measured. Also, the mRNA expression levels of luteinizing hormone receptor, CYP11A1, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, adiponectin, and adiponectin receptors 1 and 2 were measured. Results: The levels of liver, kidney, and blood parameters did not significantly differ between the treatment groups and the control group. At doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg, ovarian histopathology, especially the thicknesses of the theca and granulosa layers, was improved significantly compared to the PCOS group. The expression of target genes also improved in the 25 and 50 mg/kg treatment groups. Conclusion: Asafoetida can be used to treat PCOS as a complementary approach to conventional therapies. Asafoetida appears to act by regulating and activating metabolic and ovarian cycle enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Diabetic nephropathy is one of the main causes of kidney failure in the end stage of diabetes worldwide. On the other hand, asafoetida is a gum whose hypoglycemic effects have been proven. The present study was conducted with the aim of using asafoetida to prevent diabetic nephropathy., Methods: Diabetes was induced by a high-fat diet (60%) and streptozotocin injection (35 mg/kg) in rats. Diabetic rats were treated with an oral dose of 50 mg/kg of asafoetida for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, serum and urine parameters were examined. Antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation levels in the kidney were also determined along with its histological examination. The expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and Transforming growth factor beta genes were also evaluated., Results: Glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, and HbA1c concentrations were significantly reduced in the asafoetida 50. On the other hand, in the treatment group, serum creatinine, urea, and albumin levels decreased and increased in urine. Antioxidant enzymes in the kidney improved significantly, and the expression of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and transforming growth factor-beta genes decreased. Histopathological examination also showed that necrosis, epithelial damage, and leukocyte infiltration increased in the diabetic and decreased in the treatment group., Conclusion: The result of biochemical analysis, enzymatic, and histological examinations showed that asafoetida may delay the progression of diabetic nephropathy due to the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

The present study focuses on rapid and green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by using aqueous extract of Indian spice Asafoetida. To study the enhanced reducing and capping activity of Agave americana, four different combinations were employed, where a fixed volume of Asafoetida aqueous solution was mixed with different proportions of 1 mM aqueous silver nitrate solution and A. americana extract. Formation of AgNPs was signified through color change from colorless to dark brown and confirmed using UV–Vis spectral analysis. SEM and TEM results showed spherical and well dispersed AgNPs with particle size ranging between 50 and 125 nm, more over the X-ray diffraction patterns signified their crystalline nature. FTIR spectra of different combinations exhibited consistent pattern of decreasing particle size with increasing ratios of extracts which was also reflected in their larvicidal activity. The larvicidal application of these nanoparticles was also studied against three mosquito vectors and found most effective against malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi. Risk assessment was monitored on HEK 293 cell lines and proved safer with range of 92.8–78.2% cell viability after 24 h. This is first report where size of AgNPs was controlled through phytoextract combinations and additive effect was validated through enhanced larvicidal activity and biocompatibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Asafoetida is an oleo-gum-resin obtained from the rhizome of Ferula assa-foetida plant that its effects on hypertension have been reported. This study examines the effect of aqueous extract of asafoetida on the cardiovascular parameters in acute hypertension induced by angiotensin II (AngII). Materials and Methods: Thirty-six male rats were divided into six groups including Group 1: control; Group 2: AngII (50 ng/kg, intravenous); Group 3: losartan (Los; 10 mg/kg, i. p) + AngII; and Groups 4, 5, and 6 that received three doses of asafoetida (10, 30, and 60 mg/kg, i. p), separately. Los and extract were injected 30 min before hypertension induced by AngII. The femoral artery was cannulated and was connected to a pressure transducer, and cardiovascular parameters (systolic blood pressure [SBP], mean arterial pressure [MAP], and heart rate [HR]) were continuously recorded by a Power Lab system. The changes (△) of parameters were calculated and used for statistical analysis. Results: AngII significantly increased the value of △ SBP and △ MAP compared to the control and significantly decreased △ HR value. Injection of Los attenuated increased cardiovascular responses by AngII. Three doses of asafoetida ameliorated cardiovascular responses by AngII. Three doses of asafoetida decreased the △ HR non significantly compared to AngII. Conclusion: Our results indicated that aqueous extract of asafoetida ameliorated cardiovascular responses in acute hypertension induced by AngII. This effect in a lower dose was more effective and comparable with Los. Therefore, a part of antihypertensive effect of asafoetida is mediated through inhibition of the AngII receptor type 1 receptor of AngII.

Background: Ferula asafoetida is introduced as a valuable remedy for hysteria and some other nervous disorders in Iranian traditional medicine. Asafoetida is an oleo-gum-resin obtained from the exudates of the roots of the Ferula asafoetida. Previous studies have shown that this oleo gum resin has antioxidant, anti-apoptosis, and differentiation properties in the nervous system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of asafoetida on the death of oligodendrocytes and demyelination in male C57BL/6 mice in cuprizone (CPZ)-induced animal model of multiple sclerosis. Methods: Demyelination was induced by oral administration of rats with the 0.2% CPZ that was added to the usual diet for 8 weeks. Animals intraperitoneally received daily asafoetida at doses of 25 or 50 mg/kg of bodyweight simultaneously. At the end of the weeks, animal brains were removed and fixed to histological studies using Luxol fast blue staining. Asafoetida was screened for its antioxidant activity using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging assay and for its inhibitory activity against lipid peroxidation catalyzed by soybean lipoxygenase. Results: The results of this study showed that asafoetida significantly decreased infiltration rate in both groups of asafoetida 25 and 50 mg/kg, respectively (P < 0.01). Histological evaluations showed the lower demyelination in LFB in the group treated with asafoetida. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that asafoetida plays a neuro protective role in CPZ models of multiple sclerosis by reducing neuronal demyelination and oligodendrocytes death.

Background: In Ayurveda and traditional medicines of different countries such as Iran, America and Brazil, asafoetida has been used as an aphrodisiac agent. Objective: The present study was aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of asafoetida on spermatic and testicular parameters in treated rats. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 male Wistar rats divided equally to five groups (one control and four test groups receiving 25, 50,100 and 200 mg/kg asafoetida respectively). After 6 weeks, a small part of the cauda epididymis of each rat was dissected, and the spermatic parameters were evaluated for at least 200 spermatozoa of each animal. Testis of all rats was harvested for pathologic examination. The testosterone concentration of serum was also determined. Data were statistically assessed by one-way ANOVA and value of P < 0.05 was considered as the level of significance. Results: This study indicated that the asafoetida significantly increased the number and viability of sperms (P < 0.05). Histological study showed that spermatogenesis process and numbers of Leydig cells were increased with increasing the dose, but the Leydig cells become vacuolated. Johnsen score in experimental groups was increased compared to control although this difference was not significant (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Asafoetida showed a positive effect on spermatic parameters although the histopathological effects on the testis were observed, particularly at high doses.

Objective: In this study, antiurolithiasic and hepatoprotective effects of Ferula assa-foetida oleo-gum-resin (asafoetida) were evaluated in Wistar rats. Methods: Negative control rats were provided with ethylene glycol (EG, 1%) in drinking water for 28 days. In treatment group, asafoetida was used simultaneously once daily for 28 days at the dose of 25 mg/kg. 8-h urine was collected from experimental animals at the end of the experiment. Urine level of creatinine, uric acid, urea, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, phosphorus, and serum level of transaminase (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were evaluated. In addition, histopathological changes in kidney and liver were stained in hematoxylin and eosin. Results: Asafoetida showed a significant effect on urine volume; water intake and urinary ionic parameters were altered by EG, which elevated the calcium and inorganic phosphate; and asafoetida significantly reduced the elevated levels of these ions. In addition, asafoetida significantly elevated the urinary concentration of magnesium. ALT, AST, LDH, and ALP were elevated by EG and asafoetida significantly reduced the elevated levels of these parameters. The histological findings also showed improvement after treatment with the asafoetida. Conclusion: The presented data indicate that administration of asafoetida prevented the growth of urinary stones and also have hepatoprotective effect in experimental EG nephrolithiasis in Wistar rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the chemical composition of garlic and asafoetida essential oils and their individual and combined toxicity against larvae of Culex pipiens Linnaeus and Culex restuans Theobald (Diptera: Culicidae). The effect of the two essential oils on egg hatch was also examined. Ten and 12 compounds, respectively, were identified in garlic and asafoetida essential oils. Allyl disulfide (49.13%) and diallyl trisulfide (31.08%) were the most abundant compounds in garlic essential oil accounting for 80.2% of the total oil. In contrast, (E)-sec-butyl propenyl disulfide (30.03%), (Z)-sec-butyl propenyl disulfide (24.32%), and disulfide, methyl 1-(methylthio)propyl (21.87%) were the most abundant compounds in asafoetida essential oil. Allyl disulfide accounted for 7.38% of the total oil in asafoetida essential oil and was one of only three compounds found in both oils. For both mosquito species, garlic essential oil was more toxic than asafoetida essential oil with Cx. restuans (LC50: garlic = 2.7 ppm; asafoetida = 10.1 ppm) being more sensitive than Cx. pipiens (LC50: garlic = 7.5 ppm; asafoetida = 13.5 ppm). When combined, the two essential oils had antagonistic effects. The majority of Culex egg rafts exposed to garlic (73.1%) or asafoetida (55.8%) essential oils failed to hatch and larvae of the few that did hatch mostly died as first instars. Allyl disulfide exhibited strong ovicidal and larvicidal activity suggesting its important contribution to the overall toxicity of the two essential oils. Thus, garlic and asafoetida essential oils are potent mosquito ovicides and larvicides but if used jointly, they could undermine vector control programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gum asafoetida, an oleo-gum-resin from root of Ferula assa foetida , was extracted through alcoholic procedure followed by water extraction and then biochemically characterized using colorimetric assays, Fourier infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry, and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance. The gum was mainly composed of carbohydrates (67.39% w/w) with a monosaccharide distribution of 11.5: 5.9: 2.3: 1 between Gal, Ara, Rha and GlcA (molar ratio) and proteins (arabinogalactan protein). The polysaccharide consisted of a (1 → 3)- β - d -galactan backbone ramified predominantly from O -6 but also from O -4 and O -4,6. Side chains included terminal-α- l -Ara f , terminal-α- l - R ha p , (1 → 3)-α- l -Ara f , (1 → 5)-α- l -Ara f , terminal- β - d -Gal p , β - d -GlcA and traces of (1 → 4)- β - d -GlcA. X-ray diffraction pattern showed a semi crystalline microstructure. Thermal behavior of the gum was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed temperatures below and upper 200 °C as dominant regions of weight loss. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a main form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Asafoetida (ASF) and turmeric have traditionally been used for the treatment of various inflammatory diseases, including UC, because ASF is rich in sulfur compounds and turmeric contains curcumin (CUR). Turmeric nanofiber (TNF), the modified cell wall component of turmeric is considered to play important role in the human diet, health and can be used as a carrier agent to encapsulate bioactive components. A novel gut health product (GHP) was formulated by encapsulation of ASF and CUR complex onto TNF. The GHP was characterized by UPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, XRD, SEM with EDS and DSC studies. GHP was evaluated for anti-colitis activity in a rat model of 5% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) induced UC. Treatment with GHP significantly attenuated the disease activity index, colitis score, histopathological changes and myeloperoxidase activity. GHP has significant protective effects against DSS induced colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Asafoetida is an oleo-gum resin mainly obtained from Ferula assa-foetida L. species in the apiaceae family. Previous studies have shown that it has antispasmodic effects on rat's and pig's ileums.Purpose: The main goals of this study were to assess the vasodilatory effect of asafoetida essential oil (AEO) on the contractile response of rat's aorta rings and to find the role of nitric oxide, cyclooxygenase, and calcium channels. Thoracic aorta rings were stretched under a steady-state tension of 1 g in an organ bath apparatus for 1 h and then precontracted by KCl (80 mM) in the presence and absence of AEO. L-NAME (blocker of nitric oxide synthase) and indomethacin (blocker of cyclooxygenase) were used to assess the role of nitric oxide (NO) and prostacyclin in the vasodilatory effect of AEO. Also, the effect of AEO on the influx of calcium through the cell membrane calcium channels was determined.Results: Data showed that AEO had vasodilatory effects on aorta rings with both intact (IC50 = 1.6 µl/l) or denuded endothelium (IC50 = 19.2 µl/l) with a significantly higher potency in intact endothelium rings. The vasodilatory effects of AEO were reduced, but not completely inhibited, in the presence of L-NAME or indomethacin. Adding AEO to the free-calcium medium also significantly reduced the CaCl2-induced contractions.Conclusion: The results indicated that AEO has a potent vasodilatory effect that is endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent. Also, it reduced the influx of calcium into the cell through plasma membrane calcium channels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to identify the proteome pattern, isolate and study the functions of selective proteins from Ferula asafoetida root exudate using chromatographic techniques. The root exudate proteins were fractionated using ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. A range of bioactive protein fractions were then separated in sufficient quantity which is the focus of this study. Based on studies, here we report three main proteins with molecular weights 14 kDa, 27 kDa, and 39 kDa. The biological and pharmacological activities of both purified and unpurified proteins obtained were extensively studied to understand their significance. The study revelaed that 27 kDa protein interestingly stabilized trypsin activity in 24 h of time and retained about 64% of the enzyme activity. Analyses confirmed 40 °C and pH 8.0 are the optimum temperature and pH respectively. The 39 kDa protein remarkably increased the activity of chymotrypsin and the 14 kDa protein showed anti-bacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Invariably all of the three purified proteins showed enhanced anti-oxidant activity. In conclusion, results here obtained suggested that the primary metabolites (proteins) in asafoetida are mainly responsible for its versatile biological and pharmacological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The view that food can have an expanded role that goes well beyond providing a source of nutrients truly applies to traditional functional foods. The systematic consumption of such traditional functional food provides an excellent preventive measure to ward off many diseases. Rasam, a soup of spices, is a traditional South Indian food. It is traditionally prepared using tamarind juice as a base, with the addition of Indian sesame oil, turmeric, tomato, chili pepper, pepper, garlic, cumin, curry leaves, mustard, coriander, asafoetida, sea salt, and water. Rasam is a classic example of traditional functional food with all its ingredients medicinally claimed for various ailments. The preclinical and clinical studies on rasam and its ingredients support their traditional claim. This review is an attempt to compile the literatures on rasam, its ingredients, and to highlight its medicinal potential that has been underestimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer causes significant morbidity and mortality and is a major public health problem worldwide. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer-associated mortality in women, and the incidence is also on the rise in the entire world. Medicinal plants have been an important source of several clinically useful anticancer agents. Aim: In this study, we studied the growth inhibitory effect of asafoetida and its essential oil and ferulic acid on antitumor activity using mouse breast cancer cell line. Materials and Methods: For this aim, cells were exposed to these components at different concentrations and for different time durations. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was carried out to characterize the cytotoxicity of the constituents used. Results: Our results showed that all three constituents could inhibit 4T1 cell proliferation. Our MTT assay results showed a significant cytotoxicity effect in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. It also demonstrated that essential oil of asafoetida has a stronger effect in decreasing viability breast cancer cells. Ferulic acid showed a significant effect only at a dose of 500 µg/ml. Conclusions: Based on the results of cellular carried out in this study, we could demonstrate that asafoetida and its essential oil and ferulic acid have inhibitory effect on the growth of breast cancer cell line. As evidenced from these preliminary results, asafoetida and its derivative constituents may be considered as attractive alternatives to serve as lead compounds in drug development for breast cancer as an adjuvant therapy. However, much remains to be done before such agent could be introduced to the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In spite of the broad biological and also anticarcinogenic effects which have been reported for galbanic acid in various studies, its toxic effects are not still well characterized. The study was accomplished to evaluate the acute oral toxicity of galbanic acid pursuant to Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) TG No. 425. Female rats were received asafoetida extract and galbanic acid in distilled water by oral gavage. According to the existing information, limit test was done for aqueous extract of asafoetida and main test was done for galbanic acid. The animals were monitored for 2 weeks. Then under general anesthesia, the blood samples were obtained from the heart for biochemical and hematological assessment and the vital organs of rats were isolated for pathological evaluation. The results showed that although the Median lethal dose (LD50) of asafoetida extract was above the 2000 mg/kg body weight, the galbanic acid estimated LD50 was 310.2 mg/kg. There was no considerable change in body weight of vehicle and extract treated animals but in galbanic acid treated animals, the body weights were not normally increased. A significant rise was observed in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), (aspartate aminotransferase) AST and (alanine aminotransferase) ALT levels as well as in white blood cells (WBC), platelet and lymphocytes counts in galbanic acid group compared to vehicle and extract groups. Based on the obtained results, we suggest that although the asafoetida aqueous extract could be categorized as group 5 (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg), but galbanic acid estimated LD50 is about 310.2 mg/kg and toxicity signs also appeared in lung, liver enzymes and complete blood count (CBC) of galbanic acid treated animals., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2023 The Authors.)

Asafoetida is the dried latex exuded from the living underground rhizome or tap root of Ferula assafoetida. Antibacterial characteristic of asafoetida was shown using the circular zone diameter of bacterial growth inhibition by disk-diffusion method on two gram positive and three gram negative bacteria. Then, the bacterial genomic DNA damage, induced by F. assafoetida latex, was demonstrated using the comparison of random amplification of polymorphic DNA profiles generated by polymerase chain reaction of control and treated bacterial genomes. The results showed that the number of primers that produced bands in each bacterium were higher in control samples compared to those treated with asafoetida. This and the absence or presence of bands between controls and treatments confirm rearrangements and DNA damage in the priming binding sites of bacterial genome.

In traditional Iranian medicine, asafoetida, an oleo-gum-resin obtained from the roots of Ferula assa-foetida, has been prescribed as a diuretic. This study was undertaken to investigate the diuretic effect of asafoetida in normal rats. Asafoetida was administered orally at the doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg and furosemide (10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) was used as positive control. The diuretic effect was evaluated by measuring urine volume and sodium, potassium, urea, and creatinine content in urine and serum. Urine volume, excretion of sodium, and potassium were significantly increased by asafoetida as compared to the control group. A significant increase in creatinine clearance was observed in the groups treated with asafoetida at the doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg (P < 0.05). We conclude that asafoetida induced a diuretic effect comparable to that produced by the reference diuretic furosemide. This study provides a quantitative basis for explaining the folkloric use of asafoetida as a diuretic agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stress-related conditions are a product of modern practices, and different treatments, such as meditation, yoga, and antistress medications, are utilized to reduce disincentive stress impact. Herbal medicines are rescued humanity from a variety of illnesses, and they could be able to provide adequate responses to stress-induced disturbances. In this article, bovine serum albumin (BSA) microparticles comprising germinated seeds wheat-ginger, germinated seeds wheat-rosemary loaded BSA microparticles (GSW-ROS-MPs), germinated seeds wheat-asafoetida loaded BSA microparticles (GSW-ASA-MPs), ginger-rosemary loaded BSA microparticles (GIN-ROS-MPs), resveratrol-ginger microspheres (RES-GIN-MSs), resveratrol-rosemary microspheres (RES-ROS-MSs), resveratrol-asafoetida microspheres (RES-ASA-MSs), and asafoetida-ginger microspheres (ASA-GIN-MSs) were enhanced to improve the biopharmaceutical features of the neutral compounds. While all MPs kinds synthesized had a so-called spherical morphology, the microspheres were found to be non-porous and with a smooth spherical surface morphology. The antiradical activities were tested. Antioxidant activities of RES-ASA-MSs and GIN-ROS-MPs were found to be higher. Therefore, BSA-containing RES-ASA-MSs and GIN-ROS-MPs can be alternative systems for improving the features of these compounds and administering them therapeutically effectively. In conclusion, all prepared compounds in the present study displayed substantial in vitro free radical-scavenging capability which was dose dependent and be applicate in oxidative stress-based diseases. • A simple, efficient method for neutral compounds and BSA was developed. • New method of preparation of MSs and MPs was developed. • MSs and MPs having RES-ASA and GIN-ROS can be use them effectively therapeutically. • All modified compounds demonstrated in vitro free radical scavenging potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Iranian traditional medicine, asafoetida is introduced as a valuable remedy for nervous disorders. Dementia was induced by injection of d-galactose and NaNO2 for 60 consecutive days. Animals were divided into normal control (NC), dementia control (DC), dementia prophylactic (DP), and dementia treated (DT). The learning and memory functions were examined by 1-way active and passive avoidance tests, using a shuttle box device. Avoidance response in training tests and 1 and 3 weeks later was significantly increased in NC, DP, and DT groups compared to the DC group. Step through latency in all groups was significantly greater than the DC group. Total time spent in light room, which shows the memory retention ability, in DP, NC, and DT was significantly greater than the DC group. Our findings indicate that asafoetida could prevent and treat amnesia. These beneficial effects maybe related to some constituent’s effectiveness such as ferulic acid and umbelliferone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Materia Medica Pura Project is an international endeavor to update our materia medica and repertories. Thus far over 100 remedy monographs have been prepared and the final goal is to complete close to 600. remedy monographs. Excerpts from the Asafoetida monograph are presented which include a portion of a new genius of the remedy and several cases from the old as well as modem homeopathic literature. One of the main themes of the remedy is within outward, which applies to the reverse peristalsis and the pains in various parts of the body. Also, the remedy is characterized by fetid discharges and painful carious ulcers which are sensitive to touch. Finally, the remedy is characterized by flatulent hysteria and wandering pains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]