Journal of Pharmaceutical and Sciences

Pharmacological Potential of the Genus Chloranthus as Antioxidant, Cytotoxic, and Anti-inflammatory Agents: A Systematic Review

Muhammad Wildan Firdaus, Haryoto — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0700

The Chloranthus genus (Chloranthaceae family) has been traditionally used in Asian medicine as an anti-inflammatory agent, but recent scientific exploration reveals broader pharmacological potential. This systematic review aims to evaluate the latest experimental evidence on the antioxidant, cytotoxic, and anti-inflammatory activities of Chloranthus-derived compounds and elucidate their molecular mechanisms. Studies were selected through structured database searches using specific keyword combinations and screened using rigorous inclusion-exclusion criteria. The findings highlight a predominance of sesquiterpenoids, particularly lindenane-type (monomers, dimers, and trimers), which consistently exhibit anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK pathways and modulation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Antioxidant activity through the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway and cytotoxic effects against cancer cells were also frequently reported. Notably, several compounds demonstrated dual actions, suppressing both ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) production and proinflammatory cytokines, emphasizing their relevance in treating diseases involving oxidative stress and inflammation. These results support Chloranthus as a promising natural source of multitarget bioactive compounds. Future research should adopt a multidisciplinary approach to further elucidate molecular targets, validate in vivo efficacy, and explore novel biological resources.

Comparison of Phenolic and Antioxidant Contents in Tea Brewing and Kombucha Tea Variants by Visible Spectrophotometry

Dini Maghfirah , Ainil Fithri Pulungan , Ridwanto, Rafita Yuniarti — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

One of the most widely consumed aromatic beverages in the world is tea. Tea shoots are rich in polyphenolic compounds that function as antioxidants. Not many people know that tea can be fermented with a type of bacteria and yeast culture that can be consumed as a drink for health known as kombucha tea. The health benefits of consuming kombucha tea as anti-carcinogenic, anti-diabetic, detoxification, increased immune response, treating stomach ulcers and lowering cholesterol levels as well as high blood pressure. The purpose of this study was to determine the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity as well as the comparison of total phenolic content and antioxidant activity in tea brewing variations with kombucha tea variations. The methods carried out include testing the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity using the DPPH method on tea brewing variants and kombucha tea variants by visible spectrophotometry.mThe results of total phenolic content in black tea, green tea, and oolong tea were 24,480 mgGAE/g, 26,538 mgGAE/g, and 38,427 mgGAE/g, respectively, while kombucha black tea, green tea, and oolong tea were 39,264 mgGAE/g, 58,581 mgGAE/g, and 64,299 mgGAE/g, respectively. Brewed black tea, green tea, and oolong tea have antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 105,68 ppm in teh moderate category, 81,59 ppm in teh strong category, and 56,25 ppm in the strong category, respectively. In kombucha black tea, green tea, and oolong tea have antioxidant activity with IC50 values respectively 101,60 ppm with moderate category, 55,82 ppm with strong category, and 39,69 ppm with very strong category. While teh vitamin C comparator has antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 3,22 ppm with a very strong category.

Activity Test of Ethanol Extract of Bandotan Leaves (Ageratum conyzoides L.) on Healing of Burn Wounds in Rats (Rattus norvegicus) with Diabetes Mellitus

Nur Afika, Muhammad Yunus , Erida Novriani — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Burn wounds in patients with diabetes mellitus experience impaired healing due to chronic hyperglycemia. This study aims to identify phytochemical compounds, analyze the characteristics of crude drugs, and test the activity of ethanol extracts of bandotan leaves (Ageratum conyzoides L.) on burn wound healing in rats (Rattus norvegicus) with diabetes mellitus, including histological evaluation of wound tissue. Screening results showed that the extract contains active compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, quinones, and steroids. Herbal material characterization met standards for moisture and ash content but did not meet standards for water-soluble and ethanol-soluble extract content. The extract gel formulation was tested at three concentrations (5%, 10%, 15%). Efficacy tests showed that the 15% gel accelerated wound healing by 100% by day 15, with histological findings indicating increased numbers of fibroblasts, collagen fibers, and capillary blood vessels. This study concludes that ethanol extract of bandotan leaves has potential as an effective wound healing agent, particularly in diabetic conditions.

Effectiveness Test of Acne Facial Wash Gel Containing Ethanol Extract of Jackfruit Leaves (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk.) Against Staphylococcus aureus Bacteria

Athaillah, Venni Pritiwanti, Putra Chandra, Ali Affan Silalahi — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Jackfruit leaves (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk.) contain antimicrobial compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, which can damage bacterial cytoplasmic membranes and denature cellular proteins. This potential supports the development of a facial wash gel using jackfruit leaf extract as a natural antibacterial alternative. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a facial wash gel containing jackfruit leaf extract (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lamk.) in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus ATCC® 25923. Methods: This experimental study included sample preparation, identification, extraction, phytochemical screening, and gel formulation evaluation (organoleptic test, homogeneity, spreadability, foam height, pH, irritation, and cycling test). Antibacterial activity was tested against S. aureus, with a positive control (Himalaya (Brand) Facial Wash) and a negative control (DMSO). Results: The extract yield was 11.26%, positively detecting flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids, and triterpenoids. The gel formulations (F1-F3) were semi-solid, dark green, and had a characteristic jackfruit leaf aroma, with a pH of 5–6. Homogeneity tests confirmed uniform consistency, with the highest foam height in F3 (3.7 cm) and optimal spreadability in F1-F2 (6 cm). No irritation was observed, and the gel remained stable in cycling tests. The antibacterial test showed the highest inhibition at 12% extract concentration (92.3%), while the formulated gel also effectively inhibited S. aureus growth. Conclusion: Jackfruit leaves can be successfully formulated into a stable and safe facial wash gel with effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.

Antibacterial Activity Test of Fractionated Alkaloid Extract from Raru Bark (Cotylelobium melanoxylon Pierre) Against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus Bacteria

Shakhila Salwa, Anny Sartika Daulay , Yayuk Putri Rahayu , Ridwanto — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Indonesia is rich in medicinal plants, including Cotylelobium melanoxylon Pierre (raru bark), traditionally used to treat diarrhea, malaria, and diabetes. However, scientific validation of its alkaloid compounds and antibacterial potential is still limited. Objective: This study aimed to (1) fractionate alkaloids from raru bark extract using chloroform liquid-liquid extraction, (2) identify alkaloid functional groups via FT-IR spectroscopy, (3) quantify alkaloid levels in ethanol and methanol extracts using UV spectrophotometry, and (4) evaluate their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Methods: The research stages included plant material processing, ethanol/methanol extraction, phytochemical screening, alkaloid fractionation with chloroform, FT-IR analysis, UV spectrophotometry for alkaloid quantification, and antibacterial testing via disc diffusion at 40%, 50%, and 60% concentrations. Results: Alkaloid fractions were successfully isolated, containing functional groups N-H, C-N, C=O, aromatic C=C, and sharp C=O. The methanol extract yielded higher alkaloid levels (21.03 ± 0.10%) than ethanol (18.95 ± 0.09%). The 50% alkaloid fraction showed the strongest antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones of 21.1 mm (E. coli) and 23.1 mm (S. aureus). Conclusion: Raru bark alkaloids exhibit significant antibacterial effects, with methanol extract demonstrating superior alkaloid content and efficacy.

Sunscreen Innovation: Development of a Water-Resistant Compact Powder Formula Based on Titanium Dioxide for Optimal UV Protection

Rahmat Muliadi, Vica Aspadiah, Muhammad Handoyo Sahumena, Nidya Aftira — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation contributes to skin aging and damage, necessitating effective protection. Sunscreens offer a solution by absorbing, scattering, and reflecting UV radiation, especially those containing titanium dioxide, which has strong UV-blocking properties. Innovation in the form of compact powder sunscreen presents a practical and efficient daily protection approach due to its easy-to-apply formulation. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the physical characteristics of compact powder sunscreen formulations, including organoleptic properties, pH, homogeneity, adhesion, hardness, and the effect of titanium dioxide on the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) value. Methods: Formulations were prepared and evaluated through physical tests, including organoleptic assessment, pH, homogeneity, adhesion, and hardness, as well as SPF measurement using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. Results: Titanium dioxide contributed to the light brown color, smooth texture, and vanilla scent of the formulations. It also enhanced the SPF value. The most optimal formulation was Formula 4, containing 25% titanium dioxide, which met the desired physical criteria and achieved an SPF value of 15.06, categorized as ultra protection. Conclusion: The addition of titanium dioxide positively affected the physical characteristics and SPF value of compact powder sunscreen. Formula 4, with 25% titanium dioxide, demonstrated the best results and the highest SPF, making it the most optimal formulation for UV protection

The Effect of Soaking Time and Grinding Temperature Variations on Soy Milk Protein Content

Nadiya Syafiah Mufida , Dedi Hanwar — Sun, 20 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Soy milk, an extract from soybeans, significantly contributes to human nutritional needs, particularly as a source of plant-based protein. The protein quality in soy milk is highly influenced by processing parameters, including soybean soaking duration and grinding temperature. This study aimed to determine the optimum combination of soaking time and grinding temperature to maximize soy milk's protein content. The effects of these two factors were evaluated using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) with a Central Composite Design (CCD). Experiments were conducted for 13 experimental combinations, replicated three times. Protein content was determined by the Lowry method, while pH measurements were also performed to monitor quality. Grinding temperatures ranged from 25°C to 80°C and soaking times varied from 6 to 12 hours, using Grobogan soybean variety as the main raw material. Other parameters such as soybean quantity, water volume, soaking temperature, and boiling and grinding times were set as controlled variables. Optimization results using Design-Expert software indicated that the optimum formulation was achieved at a grinding temperature of 61°C and a soaking time of 9 hours 46 minutes. Under these optimum conditions, the resulting soy milk exhibited a protein content of 3.1% (w/w) and a pH of 7.02, both meeting established soy milk quality standards.

Effect of ethanol extract of nutmeg pulp (Myristica fragrans Houtt) on heart histopathology hyperglycemic wistar rats

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

The heart is an organ significantly impacted by diabetes mellitus problems, as elevated free radical generation and oxidative stress from hyperglycemia activate the apoptosis and necrosis pathways in cardiac myocytes. This study aimed to ascertain the histological characteristics of the cardiac tissue in rats subjected to hyperglycemia following the administration of ethanol extract from nutmeg fruit flesh (Myristica fragrans Houtt). This study employed rice as a diabetes inducer in 25 rats, categorized into 5 treatment groups: group 1 received Na-CMC, group 2 received metformin, group 3 received a dosage of 100 mg/KgBW, group 4 received a dosage of 200 mg/KgBW, and group 5 received a dosage of 300 mg/KgBW. The detected data included alterations in body weight, blood glucose levels, organ mass, and cardiac histology. The data were evaluated employing the One-Way ANOVA test at a 95% confidence level (p<0.05). The findings indicated that all groups treated with nutmeg fruit flesh ethanol extract exhibited a substantial enhancement in the histopathology of rat hearts compared to the negative control group 0,03 (p<0.05). The administration of nutmeg fruit flesh extract can ameliorate histopathological damage to the hearts of hyperglycemic rats at doses of 100 mg/KgBW, 200 mg/KgBW, and 300 mg/KgBW, indicating that nutmeg fruit flesh may serve as a cardioprotective drug in diabetic subjects.

Folic Acid Supplementation in First-Trimester Pregnant Women for Preeclampsia Prevention: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Andi Maulana Kamri, Bayu Putra , Rachmat Kosman, Putri Septiani Basri — Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Preeclampsia is a disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria that manifests during gestation. Various vitamins can influence food consumption during pregnancy. Folic acid supplementation is known to reduce preeclampsia risk, yet adherence remains low among pregnant women. The objective of the research is to identify risk variables and dosage efficacy associated with folic acid utilization. This study employs an retrospective cohort study and utilizes retrospective data collection. Data was gathered from Cahaya Ibu Pharmacy Store in Makassar, encompassing a total of 164 patients. A chi-square statistical study indicated a substantial risk association between pregnant women and the onset of hypertension in comparison to nonpregnant individuals, with a p-value of 0.001. Pregnant women had twice the risk, as shown by an odds ratio of 1.9. The study of Fisher's test data indicates a correlation between patient age and hypertension condition. The findings indicate no substantial correlation between the two variables, with a p-value of 0.523. The findings indicate a substantial correlation between the mitigation of raised blood pressure risk and the consumption of folic acid. The early use of folic acid during pregnancy planning significantly diminishes the likelihood of preeclampsia. Risk factors for preeclampsia include insufficient folic acid consumption, the duration of folic acid supplementation, and the pregnancy status of individuals with a disease risk of up to 98%. Less at age 30 years old, the consumption of folic acid may reduce the risk.

Formulation of Synbiotic Yogurt with Modified Purple Yam Starch Incorporation: Evaluation of Syneresis, Probiotic Bacterial Viability, and Organoleptic Acceptance

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Yogurt quality improvement can be achieved through synbiotic formulations combining probiotic bacteria (Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus) with prebiotics from modified purple yam starch (Dioscorea alata). This plant contains 7.54% inulin and has potential as a natural stabilizer, but its utilization in synbiotic yogurt remains suboptimal. This study aims to evaluate the effect of modified starch incorporation on probiotic viability, physical stability, and sensory acceptance. Objective: This research aimed to examine the capability of modified purple yam starch as a prebiotic source in synbiotic yogurt, focusing on its impact on syneresis, bacterial viability, and organoleptic properties. Methods: An experimental study using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six treatments. The process included purple yam starch extraction, starch modification via autoclaving (110°C and 121°C), yogurt fermentation using three bacterial strains, and evaluation of pH, syneresis, Total Plate Count (TPC), and hedonic tests by 20 panelists. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney, and Spearman correlation tests. Results: Yogurt formulations with modified yam starch yielded optimal pH (6.81 with L. rhamnosus) and highest syneresis (30.02%). Bacterial viability reached 431 × 10³ CFU/mL (10⁻² dilution) for L. rhamnosus. Organoleptic tests showed the highest scores for aroma (6.90 ± 0.31) and a significant correlation between taste-thickness (ρ=0.52; p<0.05). Color was consistent (score 6), while texture preference varied (scores 5-7). Conclusion: Modified purple yam starch effectively functions as a prebiotic and stabilizer in synbiotic yogurt, supporting probiotic viability and sensory acceptance. This formulation holds promise as a functional food product utilizing local ingredients.

Analysis of Heavy Metals in Traditional Herbal Medicine (Jamu Pegal Linu) Circulating in Banda Aceh City

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Jamu pegal linu (traditional Indonesian herbal medicine for muscle and joint pain) is widely consumed to relieve muscle and bone discomfort. However, there are concerns about heavy metal contamination, particularly lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg), in some products circulating in Banda Aceh City. Such contamination poses serious health risks, including organ damage and poisoning, necessitating thorough analysis to ensure product safety. Objective: This study aimed to detect and measure Pb and Hg levels in jamu pegal linu samples sold on Diponegoro Street, Banda Aceh, and compare them with the safety limits set by the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM RI). Methods: A total of 23 samples were qualitatively analyzed using KI, NaOH, and HCl reagents (for Pb) and HNO₃ and KI (for Hg). Positive samples were further analyzed quantitatively using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Method validation included linearity, precision, accuracy, LoD, and LoQ assessments. Results: Qualitative testing revealed Pb and Hg contamination in 12 samples. Pb levels ranged from 1.45–9.17 mg/kg (below BPOM’s threshold of ≤10 mg/kg), while Hg levels ranged from 0.14–1.37 mg/kg, with six samples exceeding the safe limit (≤0.5 mg/kg). The highest Hg concentration (1.37 mg/kg) was found in an unregistered product. Conclusion: Most jamu pegal linu products in Banda Aceh contain heavy metals, particularly Hg, at unsafe levels. Strict regulatory oversight, especially for unregistered products, is crucial to safeguard public health.

The Relationship Between Education Level, Knowledge, and Spousal Support with Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices Among Working Mothers at Sunggal Primary Clinic

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: The low rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Indonesia (52.5% in 2021), particularly in North Sumatra (57.83%), remains a pressing public health issue, especially among working mothers. Educational level, knowledge, and husband support are strongly suspected to influence the success of exclusive breastfeeding, yet these factors have been underexplored in the context of primary clinics in urban areas such as Sunggal. Objective: To analyze the relationship between educational level, knowledge, and husband support with exclusive breastfeeding practices among working mothers at the Sunggal Primary Clinic.
Methods: This quantitative, cross-sectional study involved 30 working mothers selected through total sampling. Data were collected via questionnaires and interviews, then analyzed using Chi-Square tests and logistic regression to measure the strength of associations (OR). Results: Statistical analysis showed significant relationships between all three independent variables and exclusive breastfeeding practices (p<0.05). Husband support emerged as the most dominant factor with an odds ratio (OR) of 8.2 (95% CI: 2.1–32.4), followed by maternal knowledge (OR=5.6; 95% CI: 1.8–17.3) and educational level (OR=4.3; 95% CI: 1.5–12.4). Specifically, mothers who received strong support from their husbands were 8.2 times more likely to successfully provide exclusive breastfeeding compared to those who did not. Likewise, mothers with good knowledge were 5.6 times more likely to succeed, and highly educated mothers were 4.3 times more successful than those with limited knowledge and education. Multivariate analysis indicated interaction among these three factors, with husband support amplifying the positive effects of education and knowledge. Among respondents who possessed all three positive factors (higher education, good knowledge, and strong husband support), 86.7% successfully provided exclusive breastfeeding, while only 13.3% succeeded in the group lacking these factors. Conclusion: This study strengthens the evidence that family-based interventions focusing on enhancing the husband’s role, along with comprehensive education, can be an effective strategy to increase exclusive breastfeeding rates among working mothers. These findings highlight the need for clinic policies that integrate lactation counseling for couples.

Formulation Gel Ethyl Acetate Fraction Stem Jarak Cina (Jattropha multifida L.) Effectiveness in Burn Healing

Elpa Giovana Zola, Barmi Hartesi, Lia Anggresani — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Burns represent a condition of damaged or lost skin tissue due to high-temperature exposure. Oral therapy has limitations in penetrating hardened skin tissue, necessitating topical preparations such as gels that offer advantages in comfort, absorption capability, and ease of application. The stem of physic nut (Jatropha multifida L.) contains bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins that may accelerate burn wound healing, particularly in its ethyl acetate fraction. Objective: This study aimed to formulate the ethyl acetate fraction of physic nut stem into a gel preparation and evaluate the effect of concentration variations on burn wound healing efficacy. Methods: Physic nut stems were extracted with 96% ethanol, then fractionated using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and ethanol solvents. The ethyl acetate fraction was formulated into a hydrophilic gel at concentrations of 0.140%, 0.281%, and 0.421%. The gel preparations were evaluated through organoleptic tests, homogeneity, pH, spreadability, stability, irritation, and burn healing efficacy tests in rabbits. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed that the ethyl acetate fraction contained alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins. All gel formulations met physical preparation requirements with skin-compatible pH (5.95-6.37). Formula F1 (0.140%) demonstrated optimal burn healing efficacy, equivalent to positive control (p > 0.05), and was topically safe (non-irritating). Conclusion: The ethyl acetate fraction of physic nut stem was successfully formulated into a stable and effective gel preparation for burn wound healing, with 0.140% as the optimal concentration. Further studies are required to examine toxicity and the mechanism of action of active compounds.

Factors Related to Damage to Medical Record Files in Bandung Medan General Hospital

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: Damage to medical record documents represents a serious challenge in hospital archive management, characterized by torn, faded, discolored, or illegible documents due to intrinsic (material quality) and extrinsic (environmental) factors. A preliminary survey at Bandung Medan General Hospital identified 47 damaged documents in September 2024, indicating the need for systematic intervention. Objective: To analyze the relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic factors and damage to medical record files at Bandung Medan General Hospital. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional analytical design with a sample of 92 documents (purposive sampling). Data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate (Chi-Square test) methods. Results: The findings revealed that 51.1% of documents were damaged, with intrinsic factors (paper quality, ink, and adhesives) identified in 47 documents (51.1%) and extrinsic factors (physical, biological, and chemical environment) in 48 documents (52.2%). Statistical analysis demonstrated a highly significant association between intrinsic factors and document damage (p=0.000; OR=15.2), indicating documents with material quality issues had a 15 times higher risk of damage. Similarly, extrinsic factors showed a highly significant relationship (p=0.000; OR=12.8), with suboptimal storage conditions being the primary contributor. Environmental factors, particularly high humidity (78%) and dust accumulation (65%), were the most dominant causes of physical document damage. Conclusion: Medical record damage is influenced by both factors, with recommendations for storage system improvements, environmental control, and implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for risk mitigation. The study findings should serve as valuable input for enhancing medical record document storage to ensure better safety and preservation.

Effectiveness of Video and Leaflet Media in DAGUSIBU (Get, Use, Save, Discard) Education and Beyond Use Date: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Fenny Hasanah , Salmah Handayani Lubis, Eva Sartika Dasopang, Teti Aisyah — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0700

Background: The increasing practice of self-medication and home drug storage carries the potential for medication management errors, including improper drug disposal. Lack of public understanding of DAGUSIBU (Acquire, Use, Store, Dispose) protocols and Beyond Use Date (BUD) may lead to drug misuse and environmental contamination due to improper disposal methods that violate the Drug Awareness Family Movement (Gerakan Keluarga Sadar Obat/GKSO) guidelines. Objective: To examine the impact of educational interventions on public knowledge of DAGUSIBU and BUD, and to compare the effectiveness of video versus leaflet media. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with pretest-posttest design was conducted. Purposive sampling was used to select 100 respondents from Kotamatsum I Subdistrict. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon test (educational impact), Chi-Square test (demographic correlations), and Mann-Whitney test (media comparison). Results: The educational intervention significantly improved participants' knowledge of DAGUSIBU and BUD (p < 0.001). Gender significantly influenced knowledge improvement (p = 0.005), while age, education level, and occupation showed no significant effects. Video proved more effective for DAGUSIBU content (mean score 53.94 vs 47.06), whereas leaflets showed marginally better results for BUD material (50.56 vs 50.44).Conclusion: Both video and leaflet-based education effectively enhanced community knowledge. Videos are recommended for DAGUSIBU campaigns, while leaflets serve as suitable supplementary materials for BUD education.