Circadian aspects of hyperthermia in mice induced by Aconitum napellus

Abstract

Background:Aconitum napellus (Acn) is used topically to relieve pain, itching and inflammation, and internally to reduce febrile states, among others. Any circadian time-related consequences of Acn administration are unknown. The objective of this study was to explore the effects of two doses of Acn on body temperature (BT) of mice treated at six different times over 24 hours.Materials and Methods:BALB/c female mice were housed in six chambers (six mice each) with air temperature 24 ± 3°C, humidity 60 ± 4%, and a 12-hours light (L)/12-hours dark cycle, but with L-onset staggered by 4 hours between chambers so that study at one external test time resulted in six test times (02, 06, 10, 14, 18 and 22 hours [h] after light onset). Rectal temperature (RT; in °C) was measured at baseline (B) and 1 hour after oral treatment with placebo (P) or two doses of Acn (6C and 30C, two studies each) in six studies over an 8 day span. The difference in RT for each mouse from the respective B + P timepoint mean RT was computed following each Acn treatment, and data from each of the six studies (original RT and difference from B + P) were analyzed for time-effect by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and for circadian rhythm by 24-hour cosine fitting.Results:A circadian rhythm in RT was found at B and after P (mean: 35.58°C vs. 35.69°C; peak: 15:31 h vs. 15:40 h) and after each Acn dose (30C or 6C). Acn induced hyperthermia and the overall change in BT was rhythmically significant for each dose (mean = +1.95°C vs. +1.70°C), with greatest hyperthermia observed during the L-span for each dose (peak = 08:56 h vs. 05:17 h).Conclusion:Acn administered around the clock induced hyperthermia overall and in a time-dependent manner, with greatest effects during the resting (L) span. Thus, time of day may significantly impact the outcome of Acn and other homeopathic treatments and should be considered in determining optimal dosing and treatment time(s) in order to increase the desired outcome and decrease undesired effects.

Anticancer Chemodiversity of Ranunculaceae Medicinal Plants: Molecular Mechanisms and Functions

“…Aconite root could improve the energy metabolism in rats, by influencing the metabolic process of sugar, lipid and amino acid, which may be the main molecular mechanism of warming yang and dispelling cold for the treatment of the cold syndrome, common in cancer patients, according to TCM theory, as reviewed in [ 129 ]. A. napellus extract administered around the clock induced hyperthermia overall and in a time-dependent manner, with greatest effects during the resting span [ 130 ]. Thus, time of day may significantly affect the outcome of A. napellus and other homeopathic treatments and should be considered in determining optimal dosing and treatment time in order to increase the desired outcome and decrease undesired effects [ 130 ].…”

“…A. napellus extract administered around the clock induced hyperthermia overall and in a time-dependent manner, with greatest effects during the resting span [ 130 ]. Thus, time of day may significantly affect the outcome of A. napellus and other homeopathic treatments and should be considered in determining optimal dosing and treatment time in order to increase the desired outcome and decrease undesired effects [ 130 ]. Fu Zi (lateral roots of A. carmichaelii ) can increase and maintain the dogs' body heat for at least 6 h [ 131 ].…”

Efficacy Profile of the Homeopathic Combination for Influenza and Acute Respiratory Viral Diseases Treatment and Prevention

“…The activity of aconite homeopathic preparations used to relieve pain, itching and inflammation of the throat, as well as to reduce fever, was also studied in experiments on mice [16]. The aim of the mentioned study was to evaluate the effects of two doses of aconite homeopathic preparations on the body temperature of the mice receiving the medicine at six different time regimens for 24 hours.…”