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Ana Paula Simoeswust - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    Background The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ).

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Matthias Hamburger, U Von Mandach, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ). Myometrium biopsies were collected during elective Caesarean sections. Myometrial strips were placed under tension into an organ bath and allowed to contract spontaneously. Test substances alone and at concentrations known to moderately affect contractility in this setup, or in combination, were added to the organ bath, and contractility was recorded throughout the experiments. Changes in the strength (measured as area under the curve (AUC) and amplitude) and frequency of contractions after the addition of all test substances were determined. Cell viability assays were performed with the human myometrium hTERT-C3 and PHM1–41 cell lines. BPJ (2.5 μg/mL), atosiban (0.27 μg/mL), and nifedipine (3 ng/mL), moderately reduced the strength of spontaneous myometrium contractions. When BPJ was added together with atosiban or nifedipine, inhibition of contraction strength was significantly higher than with the tocolytics alone (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). In the case of AUC, BPJ plus atosiban promoted a decrease to 48.8 ± 6.3% of initial, whereas BPJ and atosiban alone lowered it to 70.9 ± 4.7% and to 80.9 ± 4.1% of initial, respectively. Also in the case of AUC, BPJ plus nifedipine promoted a decrease to 39.9 ± 4.6% of initial, at the same time that BPJ and nifedipine alone lowered it to 78.9 ± 3.8% and 71.0 ± 3.4% of initial. Amplitude data supported those AUC data. The inhibitory effects of BPJ plus atosiban and of BPJ plus nifedipine on contractions strength were concentration-dependent. None of the test substances, alone or in combination, decreased myometrial cell viability. BPJ enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on the strength of myometrial contractions, without affecting myometrium tissue or cell viability. The combination treatment of BPJ with atosiban or nifedipine has therapeutic potential.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum reverse engineering of an Anthroposophic herbal Medicine
    Natural Product Communications, 2017
    Co-Authors: Matthias Hamburger, Karin Furer, Olivier Potterat, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata), a plant native to Madagascar, was introduced into Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, a number of investigations were ...

  • bryophyllum pinnatum and related species used in Anthroposophic Medicine constituents pharmacological activities and clinical efficacy
    Planta Medica, 2016
    Co-Authors: Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Olivier Potterat
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata) is a succulent perennial plant native to Madagascar that was introduced in Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, we conducted a large collaborative project to provide reliable data on the chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and clinical efficacy of Bryophyllum. Here, we comprehensively review the phytochemistry, as well as the pharmacological and clinical data. As to the pharmacology, special emphasis is given to properties related to the use in Anthroposophic Medicine as a treatment for “hyperactivity diseases”, such as preterm labor, restlessness, and sleep disorders. Studies suggesting that B. pinnatum may become a new treatment option for overactive bladder syndrome are also reviewed. Tolerability is addressed, and toxicological data are discussed in conjunction with the presence of potentially toxic bufadienolides in Bryophyllum species. The few data available on two related species with medicinal uses, Bryophyllum daigremontianum and Bryophyllum delagoense, have also been included. Taken together, current data support the use of B. pinnatum for the mentioned indications, but further studies are needed to fully understand the modes of action, and to identify the pharmacologically active constituents.

  • sleep quality improves during treatment with bryophyllum pinnatum an observational study on cancer patients
    Integrative Cancer Therapies, 2015
    Co-Authors: Ana Paula Simoeswust, Karin Furer, Angela Kuck, Taziri Al Hassani, Boris Mullerhubenthal, Sandra Pittl, Harald Meden, Jutta Eberhard, Michael Decker, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Hypothesis. Cancer patients frequently suffer from poor sleep quality. Bryophyllum pinnatum is a herbal medication used in Anthroposophic Medicine, which has been shown to be associated with improvements in sleep quality during pregnancy with only few and minor or moderate side-effects reported. In this study, the sleep quality of cancer patients during treatment with B pinnatum was investigated. Study Design. In this prospective, observational study, cancer patients suffering from sleep problems were treated with B pinnatum (350 mg tablets, corresponding to 50% of leaf pressed juice [Weleda AG, Arlesheim, Switzerland], dosage at physician’s consideration, but most frequently 2 tablets with evening meal and 2 before going to bed). Methods. Sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), daily sleepiness (Epworth Sleeping Scale [ESS]), and fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale [FSS]) were assessed at the beginning of the treatment and after 3 weeks. Possible adverse drug reactions perceived by the patients during the treatment were recorded. From the 28 recruited patients, 20 completed both questionnaires and were considered in the present analysis. Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results. Patients were 61 ± 10.4 years old and the majority were female (17 out of 20). During treatment with B pinnatum, the PSQI decreased from 12.2 ± 3.62 to 9.1 ± 3.61 (P < .01), and ESS changed from 8.4 ± 3.18 to 7.1 ± 3.98 (P < .05). There was no change in FSS. The treatment was well tolerated by the majority of patients, with only 6 patients reporting discomfort that might have been caused by B pinnatum (fatigue n = 3, dry throat n = 1, agitation n = 1, difficult digestion n = 1). No serious adverse drug reactions were detected. Conclusion. B pinnatum may be a suitable treatment for sleep problems of cancer patients. Controlled, randomized clinical trials of the use of B pinnatum in sleep disorders are urgently needed.

Ursula Von Mandach - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    Background The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ).

  • bryophyllum pinnatum reverse engineering of an Anthroposophic herbal Medicine
    Natural Product Communications, 2017
    Co-Authors: Matthias Hamburger, Karin Furer, Olivier Potterat, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata), a plant native to Madagascar, was introduced into Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, a number of investigations were ...

  • bryophyllum pinnatum and related species used in Anthroposophic Medicine constituents pharmacological activities and clinical efficacy
    Planta Medica, 2016
    Co-Authors: Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Olivier Potterat
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata) is a succulent perennial plant native to Madagascar that was introduced in Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, we conducted a large collaborative project to provide reliable data on the chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and clinical efficacy of Bryophyllum. Here, we comprehensively review the phytochemistry, as well as the pharmacological and clinical data. As to the pharmacology, special emphasis is given to properties related to the use in Anthroposophic Medicine as a treatment for “hyperactivity diseases”, such as preterm labor, restlessness, and sleep disorders. Studies suggesting that B. pinnatum may become a new treatment option for overactive bladder syndrome are also reviewed. Tolerability is addressed, and toxicological data are discussed in conjunction with the presence of potentially toxic bufadienolides in Bryophyllum species. The few data available on two related species with medicinal uses, Bryophyllum daigremontianum and Bryophyllum delagoense, have also been included. Taken together, current data support the use of B. pinnatum for the mentioned indications, but further studies are needed to fully understand the modes of action, and to identify the pharmacologically active constituents.

  • sleep quality improves during treatment with bryophyllum pinnatum an observational study on cancer patients
    Integrative Cancer Therapies, 2015
    Co-Authors: Ana Paula Simoeswust, Karin Furer, Angela Kuck, Taziri Al Hassani, Boris Mullerhubenthal, Sandra Pittl, Harald Meden, Jutta Eberhard, Michael Decker, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Hypothesis. Cancer patients frequently suffer from poor sleep quality. Bryophyllum pinnatum is a herbal medication used in Anthroposophic Medicine, which has been shown to be associated with improvements in sleep quality during pregnancy with only few and minor or moderate side-effects reported. In this study, the sleep quality of cancer patients during treatment with B pinnatum was investigated. Study Design. In this prospective, observational study, cancer patients suffering from sleep problems were treated with B pinnatum (350 mg tablets, corresponding to 50% of leaf pressed juice [Weleda AG, Arlesheim, Switzerland], dosage at physician’s consideration, but most frequently 2 tablets with evening meal and 2 before going to bed). Methods. Sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), daily sleepiness (Epworth Sleeping Scale [ESS]), and fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale [FSS]) were assessed at the beginning of the treatment and after 3 weeks. Possible adverse drug reactions perceived by the patients during the treatment were recorded. From the 28 recruited patients, 20 completed both questionnaires and were considered in the present analysis. Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results. Patients were 61 ± 10.4 years old and the majority were female (17 out of 20). During treatment with B pinnatum, the PSQI decreased from 12.2 ± 3.62 to 9.1 ± 3.61 (P < .01), and ESS changed from 8.4 ± 3.18 to 7.1 ± 3.98 (P < .05). There was no change in FSS. The treatment was well tolerated by the majority of patients, with only 6 patients reporting discomfort that might have been caused by B pinnatum (fatigue n = 3, dry throat n = 1, agitation n = 1, difficult digestion n = 1). No serious adverse drug reactions were detected. Conclusion. B pinnatum may be a suitable treatment for sleep problems of cancer patients. Controlled, randomized clinical trials of the use of B pinnatum in sleep disorders are urgently needed.

  • sleep quality in pregnancy during treatment with bryophyllum pinnatum an observational study
    Phytomedicine, 2014
    Co-Authors: C Lambriggersteiner, Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Angela Kuck, Matthias Hamburger, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Abstract Introduction Poor sleep quality in pregnancy is frequent. A treatment with sedatives is problematic due to possible adverse effects for mother and embryo/foetus. In the present study, we investigated the sedative effect of Bryophyllum pinnatum , a phytotherapeutic medication used in Anthroposophic Medicine. In previous clinical studies on its tocolytic effect, B. pinnatum showed a good risk/benefit ratio for mother and child. A recent analysis of the prescribing pattern for B. pinnatum in a network of Anthroposophic physicians revealed sleep disorders as one of the most frequent diagnoses for which these preparations are prescribed. Materials and methods In this prospective, multi-centre, observational study, pregnant women suffering from sleep problems were treated with B. pinnatum (350 mg tablets, 50% leaf press juice, Weleda AG, Arlesheim, dosage at physician's consideration). Sleep quality, daily sleepiness and fatigue were assessed with the aid of standardised questionnaires, at the beginning of the treatment and after 2 weeks. Possible adverse drug reactions perceived by the patients during the treatment were recorded. Results The number of wake-ups, as well as the subjective quality of sleep was significantly improved at the end of the treatment with B. pinnatum . The Epworth Sleeping Scale decreased, indicating a decrease of the tiredness during the day. There was, however, no evidence for prolongation of the sleep duration, reduction in the time to fall asleep, as well as change in the Fatigue Severity Scale after B. pinnatum . No serious adverse drug reactions were detected. Conclusion B. pinnatum is a suitable treatment of sleep problems in pregnancy. The data of this study encourage further clinical investigations on the use of B. pinnatum in sleep disorders.

Karin Furer - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum reverse engineering of an Anthroposophic herbal Medicine
    Natural Product Communications, 2017
    Co-Authors: Matthias Hamburger, Karin Furer, Olivier Potterat, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata), a plant native to Madagascar, was introduced into Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, a number of investigations were ...

  • bryophyllum pinnatum and related species used in Anthroposophic Medicine constituents pharmacological activities and clinical efficacy
    Planta Medica, 2016
    Co-Authors: Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Olivier Potterat
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata) is a succulent perennial plant native to Madagascar that was introduced in Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, we conducted a large collaborative project to provide reliable data on the chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and clinical efficacy of Bryophyllum. Here, we comprehensively review the phytochemistry, as well as the pharmacological and clinical data. As to the pharmacology, special emphasis is given to properties related to the use in Anthroposophic Medicine as a treatment for “hyperactivity diseases”, such as preterm labor, restlessness, and sleep disorders. Studies suggesting that B. pinnatum may become a new treatment option for overactive bladder syndrome are also reviewed. Tolerability is addressed, and toxicological data are discussed in conjunction with the presence of potentially toxic bufadienolides in Bryophyllum species. The few data available on two related species with medicinal uses, Bryophyllum daigremontianum and Bryophyllum delagoense, have also been included. Taken together, current data support the use of B. pinnatum for the mentioned indications, but further studies are needed to fully understand the modes of action, and to identify the pharmacologically active constituents.

  • sleep quality improves during treatment with bryophyllum pinnatum an observational study on cancer patients
    Integrative Cancer Therapies, 2015
    Co-Authors: Ana Paula Simoeswust, Karin Furer, Angela Kuck, Taziri Al Hassani, Boris Mullerhubenthal, Sandra Pittl, Harald Meden, Jutta Eberhard, Michael Decker, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Hypothesis. Cancer patients frequently suffer from poor sleep quality. Bryophyllum pinnatum is a herbal medication used in Anthroposophic Medicine, which has been shown to be associated with improvements in sleep quality during pregnancy with only few and minor or moderate side-effects reported. In this study, the sleep quality of cancer patients during treatment with B pinnatum was investigated. Study Design. In this prospective, observational study, cancer patients suffering from sleep problems were treated with B pinnatum (350 mg tablets, corresponding to 50% of leaf pressed juice [Weleda AG, Arlesheim, Switzerland], dosage at physician’s consideration, but most frequently 2 tablets with evening meal and 2 before going to bed). Methods. Sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]), daily sleepiness (Epworth Sleeping Scale [ESS]), and fatigue (Fatigue Severity Scale [FSS]) were assessed at the beginning of the treatment and after 3 weeks. Possible adverse drug reactions perceived by the patients during the treatment were recorded. From the 28 recruited patients, 20 completed both questionnaires and were considered in the present analysis. Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results. Patients were 61 ± 10.4 years old and the majority were female (17 out of 20). During treatment with B pinnatum, the PSQI decreased from 12.2 ± 3.62 to 9.1 ± 3.61 (P < .01), and ESS changed from 8.4 ± 3.18 to 7.1 ± 3.98 (P < .05). There was no change in FSS. The treatment was well tolerated by the majority of patients, with only 6 patients reporting discomfort that might have been caused by B pinnatum (fatigue n = 3, dry throat n = 1, agitation n = 1, difficult digestion n = 1). No serious adverse drug reactions were detected. Conclusion. B pinnatum may be a suitable treatment for sleep problems of cancer patients. Controlled, randomized clinical trials of the use of B pinnatum in sleep disorders are urgently needed.

  • sleep quality in pregnancy during treatment with bryophyllum pinnatum an observational study
    Phytomedicine, 2014
    Co-Authors: C Lambriggersteiner, Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Angela Kuck, Matthias Hamburger, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Abstract Introduction Poor sleep quality in pregnancy is frequent. A treatment with sedatives is problematic due to possible adverse effects for mother and embryo/foetus. In the present study, we investigated the sedative effect of Bryophyllum pinnatum , a phytotherapeutic medication used in Anthroposophic Medicine. In previous clinical studies on its tocolytic effect, B. pinnatum showed a good risk/benefit ratio for mother and child. A recent analysis of the prescribing pattern for B. pinnatum in a network of Anthroposophic physicians revealed sleep disorders as one of the most frequent diagnoses for which these preparations are prescribed. Materials and methods In this prospective, multi-centre, observational study, pregnant women suffering from sleep problems were treated with B. pinnatum (350 mg tablets, 50% leaf press juice, Weleda AG, Arlesheim, dosage at physician's consideration). Sleep quality, daily sleepiness and fatigue were assessed with the aid of standardised questionnaires, at the beginning of the treatment and after 2 weeks. Possible adverse drug reactions perceived by the patients during the treatment were recorded. Results The number of wake-ups, as well as the subjective quality of sleep was significantly improved at the end of the treatment with B. pinnatum . The Epworth Sleeping Scale decreased, indicating a decrease of the tiredness during the day. There was, however, no evidence for prolongation of the sleep duration, reduction in the time to fall asleep, as well as change in the Fatigue Severity Scale after B. pinnatum . No serious adverse drug reactions were detected. Conclusion B. pinnatum is a suitable treatment of sleep problems in pregnancy. The data of this study encourage further clinical investigations on the use of B. pinnatum in sleep disorders.

S Santos - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    Background The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ).

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Matthias Hamburger, U Von Mandach, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ). Myometrium biopsies were collected during elective Caesarean sections. Myometrial strips were placed under tension into an organ bath and allowed to contract spontaneously. Test substances alone and at concentrations known to moderately affect contractility in this setup, or in combination, were added to the organ bath, and contractility was recorded throughout the experiments. Changes in the strength (measured as area under the curve (AUC) and amplitude) and frequency of contractions after the addition of all test substances were determined. Cell viability assays were performed with the human myometrium hTERT-C3 and PHM1–41 cell lines. BPJ (2.5 μg/mL), atosiban (0.27 μg/mL), and nifedipine (3 ng/mL), moderately reduced the strength of spontaneous myometrium contractions. When BPJ was added together with atosiban or nifedipine, inhibition of contraction strength was significantly higher than with the tocolytics alone (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). In the case of AUC, BPJ plus atosiban promoted a decrease to 48.8 ± 6.3% of initial, whereas BPJ and atosiban alone lowered it to 70.9 ± 4.7% and to 80.9 ± 4.1% of initial, respectively. Also in the case of AUC, BPJ plus nifedipine promoted a decrease to 39.9 ± 4.6% of initial, at the same time that BPJ and nifedipine alone lowered it to 78.9 ± 3.8% and 71.0 ± 3.4% of initial. Amplitude data supported those AUC data. The inhibitory effects of BPJ plus atosiban and of BPJ plus nifedipine on contractions strength were concentration-dependent. None of the test substances, alone or in combination, decreased myometrial cell viability. BPJ enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on the strength of myometrial contractions, without affecting myometrium tissue or cell viability. The combination treatment of BPJ with atosiban or nifedipine has therapeutic potential.

Matthias Hamburger - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    Background The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ).

  • bryophyllum pinnatum enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility an in vitro study
    BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019
    Co-Authors: Monica Mennet, S Santos, Christian Haslinger, Matthias Hamburger, U Von Mandach, Ana Paula Simoeswust
    Abstract:

    The herbal Medicine Bryophyllum pinnatum has been used as a tocolytic agent in Anthroposophic Medicine and, recently, in conventional settings alone or as an add-on medication with tocolytic agents such as atosiban or nifedipine. We wanted to compare the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on human myometrial contractility in vitro in the absence and in the presence of B. pinnatum press juice (BPJ). Myometrium biopsies were collected during elective Caesarean sections. Myometrial strips were placed under tension into an organ bath and allowed to contract spontaneously. Test substances alone and at concentrations known to moderately affect contractility in this setup, or in combination, were added to the organ bath, and contractility was recorded throughout the experiments. Changes in the strength (measured as area under the curve (AUC) and amplitude) and frequency of contractions after the addition of all test substances were determined. Cell viability assays were performed with the human myometrium hTERT-C3 and PHM1–41 cell lines. BPJ (2.5 μg/mL), atosiban (0.27 μg/mL), and nifedipine (3 ng/mL), moderately reduced the strength of spontaneous myometrium contractions. When BPJ was added together with atosiban or nifedipine, inhibition of contraction strength was significantly higher than with the tocolytics alone (p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively). In the case of AUC, BPJ plus atosiban promoted a decrease to 48.8 ± 6.3% of initial, whereas BPJ and atosiban alone lowered it to 70.9 ± 4.7% and to 80.9 ± 4.1% of initial, respectively. Also in the case of AUC, BPJ plus nifedipine promoted a decrease to 39.9 ± 4.6% of initial, at the same time that BPJ and nifedipine alone lowered it to 78.9 ± 3.8% and 71.0 ± 3.4% of initial. Amplitude data supported those AUC data. The inhibitory effects of BPJ plus atosiban and of BPJ plus nifedipine on contractions strength were concentration-dependent. None of the test substances, alone or in combination, decreased myometrial cell viability. BPJ enhances the inhibitory effect of atosiban and nifedipine on the strength of myometrial contractions, without affecting myometrium tissue or cell viability. The combination treatment of BPJ with atosiban or nifedipine has therapeutic potential.

  • bryophyllum pinnatum reverse engineering of an Anthroposophic herbal Medicine
    Natural Product Communications, 2017
    Co-Authors: Matthias Hamburger, Karin Furer, Olivier Potterat, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata), a plant native to Madagascar, was introduced into Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, a number of investigations were ...

  • bryophyllum pinnatum and related species used in Anthroposophic Medicine constituents pharmacological activities and clinical efficacy
    Planta Medica, 2016
    Co-Authors: Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Ursula Von Mandach, Matthias Hamburger, Olivier Potterat
    Abstract:

    Bryophyllum pinnatum (syn. Kalanchoe pinnata) is a succulent perennial plant native to Madagascar that was introduced in Anthroposophic Medicine in the early 20th century. In recent years, we conducted a large collaborative project to provide reliable data on the chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and clinical efficacy of Bryophyllum. Here, we comprehensively review the phytochemistry, as well as the pharmacological and clinical data. As to the pharmacology, special emphasis is given to properties related to the use in Anthroposophic Medicine as a treatment for “hyperactivity diseases”, such as preterm labor, restlessness, and sleep disorders. Studies suggesting that B. pinnatum may become a new treatment option for overactive bladder syndrome are also reviewed. Tolerability is addressed, and toxicological data are discussed in conjunction with the presence of potentially toxic bufadienolides in Bryophyllum species. The few data available on two related species with medicinal uses, Bryophyllum daigremontianum and Bryophyllum delagoense, have also been included. Taken together, current data support the use of B. pinnatum for the mentioned indications, but further studies are needed to fully understand the modes of action, and to identify the pharmacologically active constituents.

  • sleep quality in pregnancy during treatment with bryophyllum pinnatum an observational study
    Phytomedicine, 2014
    Co-Authors: C Lambriggersteiner, Karin Furer, Ana Paula Simoeswust, Angela Kuck, Matthias Hamburger, Ursula Von Mandach
    Abstract:

    Abstract Introduction Poor sleep quality in pregnancy is frequent. A treatment with sedatives is problematic due to possible adverse effects for mother and embryo/foetus. In the present study, we investigated the sedative effect of Bryophyllum pinnatum , a phytotherapeutic medication used in Anthroposophic Medicine. In previous clinical studies on its tocolytic effect, B. pinnatum showed a good risk/benefit ratio for mother and child. A recent analysis of the prescribing pattern for B. pinnatum in a network of Anthroposophic physicians revealed sleep disorders as one of the most frequent diagnoses for which these preparations are prescribed. Materials and methods In this prospective, multi-centre, observational study, pregnant women suffering from sleep problems were treated with B. pinnatum (350 mg tablets, 50% leaf press juice, Weleda AG, Arlesheim, dosage at physician's consideration). Sleep quality, daily sleepiness and fatigue were assessed with the aid of standardised questionnaires, at the beginning of the treatment and after 2 weeks. Possible adverse drug reactions perceived by the patients during the treatment were recorded. Results The number of wake-ups, as well as the subjective quality of sleep was significantly improved at the end of the treatment with B. pinnatum . The Epworth Sleeping Scale decreased, indicating a decrease of the tiredness during the day. There was, however, no evidence for prolongation of the sleep duration, reduction in the time to fall asleep, as well as change in the Fatigue Severity Scale after B. pinnatum . No serious adverse drug reactions were detected. Conclusion B. pinnatum is a suitable treatment of sleep problems in pregnancy. The data of this study encourage further clinical investigations on the use of B. pinnatum in sleep disorders.