Plants in Respiratory Disorders I- Anti-asthmatics, A Review

Aim of This Review: Respiratory disorders pose a big threat to life and constitute a major public health problem worldwide. This review is an attempt to bring together some of the common medicinal plants traditionally used to manage asthma. The review focuses on anti-asthmatic plants, their chemistry and pharmacology in an attempt to justify use and also provide a direction for future research.

Study Approach: Information on the above was sourced from published articles and reviews on the subject available from various data bases and journals. Fifty-six medicinal plants that have been investigated for anti-asthmatic properties have been reviewed.

Findings: Table 1 gives a list of plants reviewed and the mechanism of anti-asthmatic action. Herbal products are receiving increasing attention all over the world for the management of respiratory disorders as these have shown anti-asthmatic, antihistaminic, anti-allergic, anti-anaphylactic and anti-inflammatory activities. The biochemistry and medicinal significance of polyphenols and flavonoids are now better appreciated in the management of respiratory disorders.

Conclusion: Medicinal plants remain the main ingredients of indigenous medicines; this review justifies the need for polyherbal formulations for use in the management of respiratory disorders.