DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF A POLYHERBAL PREPARATION FOR PREVENTING ASTHMA IN RATS

Abstract

The objective of the research work was to prepare a polyherbal preparation with multi directing mechanisms targeting on Asthma. Most commonly used herbs like Glycyrrhiza glabra, Allium cepa and Clerrodendrum serratum which were collected from Attar bohra shop, Mandsaur with hydroalcoholic (50:50) solvent and further combined in equal proportion so as to prepare a polyherbal preparation (F1). Further F1 at 200 and 400 mg/Kg were evaluated for acute toxicity and Anti asthmatic activity. These herbs have expectorant, anti oxidant and anti inflammatory, anti histaminic effects respectively which are in turn useful parameters against asthma. Guinea pig tracheal chain proved helpful in evaluating the efficacy of the preparation as compared to other marketed ayurvedic and allopathic medications. Also Broncho Alveolar Lavage fluid was observed for eosinophilic and macrophage count estimation. Airway hyper responsiveness in response to Methacholine administration proved beneficial for the study. This was further supported by lung tissue histology. Bronchial muscle relaxation was seen as well as inflammation due to free radicals and cytokines exhibited a marked decline.