Journal of Pharmaceutical and Sciences

Review of Potential Activities of Sambiloto Herbs, Meniran Herbs, and Kumis Kucing Leaves in the Management of Diabetic Neuropathy: A Narrative Review

2026-05-03T03:14:42-07:00

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the most common microvascular complications among patients with diabetes mellitus, characterized by damage to peripheral nerves due to persistently high blood sugar levels, excessive oxidation and inflammation. Conventional treatments are often not effective enough in comprehensively addressing this problem, so strategies using medicinal plants are emerging as promising options. This study aims to review the potential pharmacological activities of three medicinal plants, namely sambiloto (Andrographis paniculata), meniran (Phyllanthus niruri), and cat's whisker (Orthosiphon aristatus), in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. This study was conducted using the Narrative Review method with a literature search of two databases PubMed and ScienceDirect with an interval of publication years 2016-2026. A total of 16 articles were selected. The three types of plants showed significant pharmacological properties, including as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and neuroprotective. Sambiloto functions through andrographolide compounds that inhibit the NF-κB pathway and increase Nrf2 antioxidant activity. Meniran has an effect in lowering blood glucose levels and increasing the performance of antioxidant enzymes. Cat whisker plays a role in glucose control, kidney care, and inflammation in the system. The results of this study are expected to provide an overview of additional therapies in overcoming diabetic neuropathy through the workings of Sambiloto, meniran, and cat's whiskers have complementary potential. The combination of these three plants offers a diverse approach, but further research is needed to assess synergistic effects, safety, and the most appropriate formulation as a modern herbal treatment.

The Integrating Precision Genomic Strategies and Islamic Ethical Perspectives in Stunting Prevention: Focus on the Growth Hormone-IGF-1 Pathway

2026-05-03T04:24:02-07:00

Stunting remains one of the major chronic nutritional problems in Indonesia. The national prevalence of stunting has decreased from 37.2% in 2013 to 19.8% in 2024; however, this figure is still above the World Health Organization threshold (<20%) and has not yet reached the national target of 14%. The interaction of nutritional, environmental, and genetic factors influences stunting. Genetic variations within the Growth Hormone–Insulin-like Growth Factor One pathway play a significant role in regulating linear growth in children; disruptions in this pathway can increase vulnerability to stunting. In addition, the majority of Indonesia's population adheres to Islam, making religious values a strategic potential for strengthening health interventions. This review article examines the integration of scientific approaches, focusing on genetics and Islamic values, in stunting prevention by highlighting polymorphisms in the IGF1, IGF1R, and GHR genes and their relevance to the principles of maqāsid al-sharī‘ah, particularly hifz al-nasl (protection of lineage). The analysis is conducted using a descriptive-analytical approach based on recent scientific literature and Islamic references, including the Qur’an, prophetic traditions, and scholarly exegesis. The findings indicate a strong alignment between scientific approaches and Islamic teachings, including the importance of adequate nutrition during pregnancy, exclusive breastfeeding, consumption of lawful, nutritious food, genetic screening efforts consistent with the values of divine decree, and vitamin D supplementation to support Insulin-like Growth Factor One levels. This integration has the potential to enhance community acceptance of stunting-prevention programs, strengthen moral and spiritual motivation, and support the achievement of national stunting-reduction targets. Thus, an approach that combines precise genomics and Islamic values may serve as a contextual and sustainable strategy in shaping a generation that is healthy, intelligent, and spiritually resilient.

Comparison of Antioxidant Activity of Flavonoid Compounds From (Moringa Oleifera L.) Leaf Extract Using Uv-Vis Spectrophotometry Method

2026-05-06T23:41:37-07:00

The bioactive compounds found in moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera L.) can function as natural antioxidants to protect cells from damaging free radicals. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the antioxidant activity of moringa leaves according to the type of solvent, analyze the relationship between antioxidant capacity and concentration of active compounds, and determine the best solvent. Extraction was carried out using ethanol, methanol, and aquades solvents, followed by testing antioxidant activity using UV-Vis spectrophotometry method on DPPH radicals. The content of phenols, flavonoids, and tannins in the extract was measured to understand their contribution to antioxidant activity Based on the results of the study, the extract containing ethanol solvent showed the most powerful antioxidant activity, with an IC50 value of 103.98 ppm. In conclusion, the type of solvent has a significant effect on the antioxidant activity of moringa leaves, with ethanol solvents being the most effective option. This research strengthens the potential of moringa leaves as a natural source of antioxidants that can be utilized for applications in the pharmaceutical and health fields, although further research is needed to optimize extraction techniques and the development of moringa oleifera leaf-based product

The Effect of Menopause on the Cardiovascular System

2026-05-08T10:10:24-07:00

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation for 12 consecutive months without any underlying pathological cause. This occurs due to ovarian follicular atresia, which leads to the cessation of estrogen production. The menopausal transition begins 5 to 10 years before menstruation ceases. During menopause, estrogen levels decline, leading to biological changes in the body, such as an increase in total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), triglycerides, and apolipoprotein B, as well as a decrease in high-density lipoprotein (HDL), an increase in visceral fat, and the development of metabolic syndrome. Various characteristics of menopause have been evaluated in relation to cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, including age at menopause onset, type and stage of menopause, endogenous estradiol levels, and menopause-related symptoms. These factors have been found to be associated with CVD risk, with the highest risk occurring in women with ovarian failure and relatively early menopause. Women with early menopause (aged 40–44 years) have a hazard ratio of 1.55 (95% CI: 1.38–1.73) for coronary artery disease events compared to women with menopause at age 50–54 years. Women with premature ovarian failure tend to have a shorter life expectancy compared to those who experience late menopause, primarily due to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Relationship Between Delta Like Ligand 1 (DLL-1) Levels in Serum and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) with The Severity of Tuberculosis Meningitis

2026-05-03T03:52:24-07:00

Tuberculous meningitis (TBM) is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) affecting the meninges, characterized by high morbidity rates. The prognosis of TBM is partially determined by clinical severity, classified according to the British Medical Research Council (BMRC) scale. Delta Like Ligand 1 (DLL-1) is a transmembrane protein that plays a role in the formation of lipid cells, which are essential for the survival, virulence, and defense of M.tb against the host immune system. DLL-1 expression can be induced by the stimulation of M.tb cell walls in response to the human immune system. This study aims to analyze the correlation between DLL-1 levels in the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with the clinical severity of TBM patients. A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 30 TBM patients treated at M. Djamil Central General Hospital, Padang, from October 2025 to January 2026. Serum and CSF DLL-1 levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, while TBM severity was assessed based on the BMRC criteria. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0 with a significance level of p < 0.05. The results of the analysis showed no significant difference in serum DLL-1 levels (p = 0.129) or CSS DLL-1 levels in relation to the severity of TBM (p = 0.097).

Nephroprotective Effectiveness Test of Coffee Fruit Extract (Coffea arabica L.) Against Histopathological Features and Inflammatory Markers in Gentamicin-Induced Mice

2026-05-04T21:44:10-07:00

Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic widely used in the treatment of severe bacterial infections; however, its clinical application is limited due to nephrotoxic effects. Gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity is closely associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, which contribute to tubular damage and renal dysfunction. Coffee fruit (Coffea arabica L.) contains various bioactive compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, and polyphenols, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and may provide renal protection. This study aimed to evaluate the nephroprotective effectiveness of coffee fruit extract against gentamicin-induced kidney injury in rats based on histopathological features and inflammatory markers. This experimental in vivo study used male Wistar rats divided into five groups: normal control, gentamicin control, and gentamicin combined with coffee fruit extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight. Gentamicin was administered intraperitoneally to induce nephrotoxicity, while the extract was given orally for 14 days. Serum interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and kidney tissues were examined histopathologically using hematoxylin–eosin staining. The results showed that gentamicin significantly increased serum IL-6 levels and caused moderate renal histopathological damage. Administration of coffee fruit extract significantly reduced IL-6 levels at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight (p<0.05) and improved renal histopathological features in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest dose showing the most pronounced protective effect. In conclusion, coffee fruit extract demonstrates nephroprotective potential against gentamicin-induced renal injury by reducing inflammatory responses and improving kidney histopathology.

Formulation and Antioxidant Activity of Old Coconut Water Syrup (Cocos nucifera L) and Red Fruit Extract (Pandanus conoideus L) Using the DPPH Method

2026-05-06T22:05:33-07:00

Background: Mature coconut water (Cocos nucifera L.) has the potential as a health drink but is often discarded as waste. Red fruit (Pandanus conoideus L.) is an endemic plant of Papua that is rich in antioxidants. The combination of both is expected to produce a beneficial herbal syrup preparation. Objective: To formulate a combination syrup of mature coconut water and red fruit extract and to determine its antioxidant activity using the DPPH method. Methods: Red fruit extract was obtained by maceration using 96% ethanol. Phytochemical screening was performed on both ingredients. The syrup was prepared with the addition of sugar, citric acid, vanilla, and CMC. Physical evaluation included organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, and clarity tests. Antioxidant activity was tested using the DPPH method at a wavelength of 517 nm using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Results: Phytochemical screening showed that mature coconut water contains alkaloids, while red fruit extract contains flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids. The syrup evaluation met SNI requirements: organoleptic (reddish-orange color, characteristic odor, sweet taste), homogeneous, pH 5–6, viscosity 250 mPa·s, and clear. The IC50 values of the syrup in three consecutive replicates were 550.34 μg/mL, 2282.3 μg/mL, and 2863.4 μg/mL, which are classified as weak antioxidant activity (IC50 > 200 ppm). Conclusion: The combination syrup of mature coconut water and red fruit extract exhibits weak antioxidant activity but meets the physical quality standards of the preparation. This preparation has the potential to be developed as a herbal health drink.

In Vitro Study : Antifungal Activity of Coffea canephora Peel and Leaf Extracts Against Candida albicans

2026-05-06T22:28:45-07:00

Candida albicans is a major cause of invasive candidiasis with high morbidity and mortality rates, and it has shown increasing resistance to antifungal agents. The objective of this research to evaluate the antifungal activity of Coffea canephora peel and leaf extract against Candida albicans in vitro by determining the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). Robusta coffee peel and leaves were extracted using maceration with 96% ethanol, followed by phytochemical screening and antifungal activity testing using the broth dilution method. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic-tannins, flavonoids, saponins, and terpenoids, while steroid were not detected. Based on the antifungal activity test conducted separately, both extracts had the same MIC value at a concentration of 12,5%. Statistical analysis using One Way ANOVA demonstrated a significant difference among treatment groups (p<0,05). The antifungal activity of the extract is presumed to be associated with phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid and caffeine, which may act through disruption of cell membrane integrity and inhibition of ergosterol synthesis. These finding suggest that Coffea canephora peel and leaf extract has the potential to be further developed as an antifungal agent, especially in topical formulations, but further toxicity tests and in vivo tests are required.