Evaluation of Antiasthmatic Activity of Eraippu Noi Chooranam (ENC)

Background: Every human race has its own traditional system of medicines. Siddha system of medicine is unique and ancient of its kind originating from Tamil Nadu in India. Siddha system could be considered as the crown of all the traditional arts of the ancient Tamil. Eraippu Noi Chooranam is a modified Siddha Poly Herbal formulation indicated for respiratory diseases in the text Siddha research pharmacopoeia. The indicated traditional claim enforced to evaluate its efficacy in the management of Bronchial asthma. Aim and Objective: The aim of study is to evaluate the anti asthmatic activity of ENC in Bronchial asthma. Materials and Methods: In the present study, aqueous extract of ENC was evaluated for its anti asthmatic activity using histamine induced bronchospasm, in guinea pig at different dose levels. Results: The test drug ENC at all the three doses of 100,200,300 mg/kg p.o significantly (p<0.01) increased  the latent period of convulsions following exposure to histamine aerosol when compared to control. The percentage of protection by the standard drug was 82.8 % whereas the protection offered by ENC at 100,200 and 300 mg/kg was found to be 61.5%, 71.1% and 80% respectively. High dose of ENC offered highest protection which was comparable to standard. Conclusion: It can be concluded that aqueous extract of ENC may be used in the management of asthma.