Broncho-relaxant activity of nigella sativa versus anthemis nobilis in chronic bronchial asthma; a comparative study of efficacy

Abstract

––Background: Bronchial asthma (BA) is a clinical syndrome with variable causes. It characterizes by episodes of broncho-constriction which leads to shortness of breath. In traditional medicine, some medicinal plants have been used to cure the asthmatic symptoms. Objective: To evaluate the broncho-relaxant activity of Anthemis nobilis (Chamomile) and Nigella sativa (Black seeds) then to choose the better. Methods: An open study was conducted on 54 patients with chronic bronchial asthma. After clinical assessment, estimation of pulmonary function tests and serum electrolytes: calcium, magnesium, potassium and selenium were done before and after the study. Anthemis nobilis was given to 18 patients and nigella sativa to another 18 patients for 21 days. Results: The comparative study showed that the tested plants have significant elevation in the values of forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV 1 %) and forced volume capacity (FVC) with marked reduction in asthmatic attacks, but showed better symptomatic improvement with black seeds as compared to chamomile. Conclusion: The results of all parameters of efficacy prove the superiority of nigella sativa over anthemis nobilis for CBA.