Effects of Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) Extract on Acute Lung Injury: An Experimental Study

Introduction: Pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokine and oxidant/antioxidant imbalances develop in acute respiratory distress syndrome cases, a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in childhood. This study aims to investigate whether Achillea millefolium, with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, can be used in the treatment of acute lung injury. Methods: A total of 36 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Acute lung injury was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Serum samples were analyzed for TNF-α, IL-10, native thiol, total thiol, and disulfide levels. Lung samples were examined using hematoxylin-eosin staining. Results: A significant difference was observed in TNF-α values among groups (p=0.003). CLP group showed higher TNF-α values compared to the control group (50.88±5.21 vs. 34.13±9.89 pg/mL, p=0.002), and histologically demonstrated increased scores of lymphocytes, fibroblasts, histiocytes, neutrophils, hemorrhage, and congestion (p=0.006, p<0.001, p=0.007, p=0.001, and p=0.001, respectively). TNF-α values in the CLP+AM group showed a statistically significant decrease compared to the CLP group (50.88±5.21 vs. 38.59±11.65 pg/mL, p=0.035), and histologically, scores of lymphocytes, fibroblasts, histiocytes, neutrophils, hemorrhage, and congestion were reduced (p=0.017, p=0.005, p=0.007, p=0.001, and p=0.02, respectively). CLP+D group also showed a non-significant decrease in TNF-α values compared to the CLP group (50.88±5.21 vs. 39.31±5.09 pg/mL, p=0.055), but histologically, congestion, fibroblast, and histiocyte scores were significantly reduced (p=0.015 and p=0.002, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference among other groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: This study suggests that Achillea millefolium, with its anti-inflammatory effect, may be used in the treatment of acute lung injury. However, clinical studies are needed to support these findings.