The antianaphylactic effects of Crinum glaucum aqueous extract

The aqueous extract of Crinum glaucum was evaluated for its effects on antigen and histamine induced contraction of the ileum and on mediator release from the lungs of sensitized guinea pigs. The results show that the extract dose dependently inhibited the contractions induced by antigen and histamine in vitro and in vivo. The extract also inhibited, in a dose-dependent manner, the quantity of mediators antigenically released from the lungs and reduced the mepyramine resistant activity from the lungs. The results obtained indicate that the extract possesses antianaphylactic properties, which may account for its use as an antiasthmatic in traditional medicine. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.