A trial of Phyllanthus amarus in acute viral hepatitis.

The study was done to know whether the powders of Phyllanthus amarus plants favourably influence the duration of disease in patients with acute viraus B hepatitis when compared to placebo. The powders of the plant were given in capsule form (300 mg capsules--3 capsules--3 capsules thrice daily) and an antacid powder in similar capsule was used as placebo. Persons with encephalopathy, preexisting medical conditions or serum bilirubin above 350 iu/l were excluded from the study.

Effect of coconut oil & safflower oil on lipids in isoproterenol induced myocardial infarction in rats.

Effect of feeding safflower oil and coconut oil in experimental myocardial infarction induced by isoproterenol in rats was studied. Based on the survival rate and histopathological examination, safflower oil was found to offer better protection than coconut oil. Serum GOT levels also confirmed the protective activity of safflower oil.

Effect of ethanol administration on metabolism of lipids in heart and aorta in isoproterenol induced myocardial infarction in rats.

Effect of ethanol administration on the severity of myocardial infarction induced by isoproterenol in rats was studied. Even though serum CPK and GOT levels as well as the extent of myocardial damage as revealed by histopathological studies, were similar, the survival rate was higher in rats administered ethanol. Concentration of cholesterol and triglycerides in the serum and heart in rats given ethanol and isoproterenol seems to be the additive effect caused individually by ethanol and isoproterenol.