Menthol 0.3% / Anise oil 0.2% lozenges

Public awareness on health and safety issues in using antibiotics for livestock production has led many countries to ban the use of all growth-promoting antibiotics (GPA) for livestock feeding. The ban on the utilization of antibiotics in livestock, on the other hand, is an opportunity for researchers and livestock practitioners to develop alternative feed additives that are safe for both livestock and the consumers of animal derived foods. Many feed additives were developed from a number of plants that contain secondary metabolites, such as essential oils, polyphenols, and saponins. These secondary metabolites are extracted from various parts of many types of plants for their uses as feed additives and anthelmintics. Recent investigations on using essential oils, polyphenols, and saponins as dietary additives and anthelmintics demonstrate that they can increase not only the production and health of ruminants but also ensure the safety of the resulting foods. There are many publications on the advantageous impacts of dietary plant bioactive components on ruminants; however, a comprehensive review on individual bioactive constituents of each plant secondary metabolites along with their beneficial effects as feed additives and anthelmintics on ruminants is highly required. This current study reviewed the individual bioactive components of different plant secondary metabolites and their functions as additives and anthelmintics to improve ruminant production and health, with respect to safety, affordability and efficiency, using a systematic review procedure.

Abstract licence: CC BY

BackgroundChemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a major burden for cancer patients, often poorly managed by conventional antiemetics, prompting exploration of medicinal plant therapies for better supportive care.ObjectiveThis systematic review critically evaluates medicinal plants for CINV, detailing bioactive compounds, diverse antiemetic mechanisms, and promising chemosensitizing and immunomodulatory properties.MethodsA comprehensive literature search and critical analysis of studies investigating medicinal plants for CINV were performed.Key findingsThis review synthesizes evidence for 22 botanicals. Ginger (gingerols, shogaols) acts via 5-hydroxytryptamine 3 (5-HT₃) receptor antagonism and substance P/neurokinin-1 (NK-1) inhibition, and offers chemosensitization by downregulating P-glycoprotein. Cannabis (THC, CBD) modulates the endocannabinoid system and 5-HT₃ receptors for CINV relief and may enhance chemotherapy sensitivity. Mint (menthol, menthone) relaxes gastrointestinal smooth muscle and offers anti-inflammatory benefits. Chamomile (apigenin) has antispasmodic/anxiolytic effects; its apigenin also sensitizes cancer cells to chemotherapy. Turmeric (curcumin) acts on neurotransmitter systems, offers potent anti-inflammatory/antioxidant effects, and boosts chemosensitivity via NF-κB/P-gp modulation. Plants like Pinellia ternata, lemon, fennel, and licorice show varied mechanisms (gastrointestinal regulation, anti-inflammatory, neurotransmitter modulation). Many botanicals show chemosensitizing (inhibiting efflux pumps, promoting apoptosis) and immunomodulatory (affecting cytokines, immune cells) properties. Synergistic plant combinations (eg, ginger with P. ternata or turmeric) are noted for enhanced efficacy and safety.ConclusionMedicinal plants offer a compelling, multi-targeted approach for CINV management, with potential beyond symptomatic relief via their antiemetic, chemosensitizing, and immunomodulatory actions. Rigorous clinical trials are needed to integrate these botanicals into evidence-based supportive cancer care.

Abstract licence: CC BY-NC