Curcuma caesia rhizomes: evaluation of antiasthmatic effect by using clonidine induced mast cell degranulation

Abstract

Aim of study: Curcuma caesia (Family: Zingiberaceae) is being used in traditional medicine for the treatment of severe bronchitis and asthma. The aim of study was to evaluate antiasthmatic activity of various extracts of curcuma caesia rhizomes to validate its traditional use. Materials and methods: In the present study petroleum ether, ethanol and water extract of Curcuma caesia rhizomes at the doses of 25-100 mg/kg i. p. was evaluated for antiasthmatic activity using clonidine induced mast cells degranulation in mice. Results: Treatment group of CCEE (Curcuma caesia rhizomes ethanol extract) exhibited significant mast cell stabilizing potential at all three doses (25, 50, 100 mg/kg i.p) 27.2±1.854, 23.4±1.166, 17.6±1.452 respectively as compared to control group. Percent protection offered by CCEE at all three doses was notably 75.13%, 76.07%, 81.70% and was of statistical significance as compared to CCPEE and CCWE. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the ethanol extract of Curcuma caesia (CCEE) may be useful in management of asthma. Keywords: Curcuma caesia, asthma, mast cell degranulation