Abstract

EVALUATION OF ANTI-HISTAMINIC ACTIVITY OF RASA GUTIKA IN GUINEA PIGS

Dr. Swetha Y.*, Dr. Shivasharanappa, Dr. Surekha S. Medikeri

Abstract

Bronchial asthma is a common allergic respiratory disorder that poses a significant global health challenge. Rasa Gutika, a herbo-mineral formulation described in Ayurvedic literature for the management of Shwasa Roga (respiratory disorders), was evaluated for its antihistaminic activity and potential therapeutic role in allergic bronchial asthma. The study was carried out in 2 experimental phases. The 1st phase involved the assessment of antihistaminic activity using a histamine-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs. The 2nd phase evaluated the effect of the formulation on histamine-induced smooth muscle contraction using an isolated guinea pig tracheal chain preparation. In the histamine-induced bronchospasm, administration of Rasa Gutika produced a significant delay in the onset of pre-convulsive time compared to the control group. The maximum protective effect was observed at 30 min, which was sustained up to 180 min, followed by a gradual decline at 240 and 300 min, although the response remained statistically significant. The combination of Rasa Gutika with Anupana (Kantakari Kashaya and Pippali Churna) demonstrated better protective activity than Rasa Gutika administered alone. In the isolated guinea pig tracheal chain preparation, Rasa Gutika significantly inhibited histamine-induced smooth muscle contraction. The formulationadministered along with Anupana exhibited a better relaxant effect when compared to the formulation alone.The findings of the study indicate that Rasa Gutika possesses significant antihistaminic activity and may provide therapeutic benefits in allergic conditions such as bronchial asthma. Furthermore, the use of Anupana enhanced the pharmacological efficacy of the formulation.

Keywords: Rasa Gutika, Bronchial Asthma, Antihistaminic Activity, Allergic Disorders, Anupana, Histamine-Induced Bronchospasm, Guinea Pig Tracheal Chain Preparation.