Antiasthmatic activity of Ricinus communis L. roots

To evaluate the antiasthmatic activity of Ricinus communis (R. communis) Linn (Euphorbiaceae) to validate its traditional use. The antiasthmatic activity of ethanol extract of R. communis (ERCR) root was evaluated on milk induced leucocytosis and eosinophilia in mice, mast cell degranulations in mice and passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats at (100-150 mg/kg). The ERCR significantly decreases milk induced leucocytosis and eosinophilia and protect degranulations of mast cells in mice. At the same dose ERCR inhibited passive cutaneous anaphylaxis in rats. Phytochemical study revealed the presence of steroids, saponin, alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycosides. The flavonoids and saponins are reported to possess mast cell stabilizing and antianaphylactic activity. Hence ERCR shows antiasthmatic activity may be due to presence of flavonoids and/or saponins.