Surendra K. Verma

Effect of Greater cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) on blood lipids, fibrinolysis and total antioxidant status in patients with ischemic heart disease

Abstract Objective Greater cardamom ( Amomum subulatum Roxb.) fruit powder (seeds with pericarp) was evaluated for its effect on some of the cardiovascular risk factors in patients with ischemic heart disease. Methods Thirty male individuals (50-70 years) with ischemic heart disease (old MI>6 months) were selected for the study and divided into two groups of fifteen each. Group I (Treated) received 3 g cardamom powder in two divided doses while Group II (Placebo) received matched placebo capsules for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected initially and at 6 and 12 weeks for analysis of lipid profile, fibrinolytic activity and total antioxidant status. Results Administration of Greater cardamom significantly ( P P Conclusions Dietary supplementation of Greater cardamom favorably modifies lipid profile and significantly enhances fibrinolytic activity and total antioxidant status in patients with ischemic heart disease.

Pharmacology of Bombax ceiba Linn.

Bombax ceiba Linn., a tree of ubiquitous occurrence, is characterized morphologically with sharp thorns, polyadelphous stamens and deciduous calyx; while anatomically it can be identified with concentric fibrous patches and rosette crystals of calcium oxalate. It is highly reputed in various traditional medicinal systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Traditional Chinese and Tibetan Medicine and considered as very good wound healer, tissue and bone regenerator, bowel-controller, anti-diarrheal, aphrodisiac, styptic agent and also useful in diseases such as kidney stones, burns and hyperpigmentation.

Pharmacological Investigations and Toxicity Studies

Red Silk-Cotton tree has been scrutinized for its pharmacology in various parts of the world. Different parts of Bombax ceiba has shown to possess many biological properties predominantly antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anabolic, hepatoprotective, hypotensive and hypoglycemic activities. It has proved to be safe in various toxicity studies. However, it still needs extensive scientific exploration.

Ecological Importance and Need of Conservation

Silk-Cotton tree is in fact a boon to environment by providing shelter and food to animals, reducing pollution, cooling homes, attracting positive microvita and thus plays an important role in balancing ecosystem. However, few traditions and commercial overexploitation is leading to an untimely demise of this multipurpose tree species in various parts of the world. Results of some conservation strategies applied in Udaipur, India have also been discussed.