Inhibitory effects of a standardized extract of Justicia pectoralis in an experimental rat model of airway hyper-responsiveness

Abstract

Jp has antiasthmatic properties in an experimental model that reproduces tracheal hyper-reactivity.

Organic Extract of Justicia pectoralis Jacq. Leaf Inhibits Interferon-γ Secretion and Has Bacteriostatic Activity against Acinetobacter baumannii and Klebsiella pneumoniae

“…Furthermore, the extract abolished the OVA-induced increase in the IL-1 β and TNF- α level in the bronchoalveolar fluid and weakened the changes in the expression of canonical transient receptor protein genes. These findings evidenced that J. pectoralis presents antiasthmatic properties in the experimental model of reproductive hyperresponsiveness [2]. Our work corroborates with the research of these authors regarding the anti-inflammatory activity of this plant, despite using another type of organic extract to the tested cytokines.…”

“…Several studies report the coumarin quantification in aerial parts of extracts of J. pectoralis by HPLC [2, 22]. Coumarin (1,2-benzopyran) is one of the major secondary metabolites present in the leaves and aerial parts of J. pectoralis and one of the major components responsible for the biological activities attributed to this plant [23].…”

“…belongs to the family Acanthaceae [1] and in Brazilian north-east it is popularly known as chambá, chachambá, anador, clover-tree, or clover-cumaru. It is quite widespread, and its occurrence has been registered in several South American countries [2]. There are also reports of its traditional uses.…”

“…One of the first publications was a report by MacRae and Towers [3] who pointed out its administration against lung infections, stating it to be an ingredient of “hallucinogenic” snuff. In the form of syrups, infusion, or mash, it was found that the leaves of this plant were used as an expectorant and to treat asthma, cough, bronchitis [2, 4], colds, menstrual pains [5], and diabetes and as an antibacterial and sedative agent [6]. …”

“…Some of these anti-inflammatory studies include clinical trials with J. pectoralis syrups for treatment of asthmatic patients [11–13]. However, only one study has reported the cytokines modulation, showing exclusively the modulations of IL-1 β and TNF- α cytokines [2]. …”