Evaluating Astragalus Sarcocolla's Therapeutic Potential in Ovalbumin- Induced Allergic Airway Inflammation in Mice

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effects of Astragalus sarcocolla on ovalbumin-induced allergic airway inflammation in mice. Methodology: This experimental study was conducted at CMH Lahore Medical College from November 2022 to May 2023. BALB/c mice (n=40) were randomly divided into four groups (n=10 each). Allergic airway inflammation was induced in all groups except the control (Group I) using intraperitoneal ovalbumin (OVA) with aluminum hydroxide, followed by intranasal OVA exposure for seven days. Group III received Astragalus sarcocolla extract (ASE) as treatment, while Group IV received methylprednisolone for comparison. Inflammation was confirmed by a delayed hypersensitivity test. After euthanasia, blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples were analysed for total leukocyte count (TLC) and differential leukocyte count (DLC). Lung tissues were analyzed through histopathological examination. Results: ASE significantly reduced TLC in blood (4.375±0.134, P<0.001) and BALF (1.30±0.108, P<0.05). ASE also decreased DLC in both blood and BALF, similar to methylprednisolone. Histopathological analysis confirmed its potent anti-inflammatory effects, comparable to the standard treatment. Conclusion: Astragalus sarcocolla extract exhibited significant anti-inflammatory properties, similar to methylprednisolone, suggesting its potential as a natural treatment for inflammatory diseases, particularly asthma. Key Words: Astragalus sarcocolla, Airway inflammation, Asthma, Ovalbumin, Allergy, Methylprednisolone