Therapeutic Efficacy of Novel Herbal Formulation in Protecting PM_2.5-Induced Lung Tissue Degeneration

Particulate matter (PM) poses a major threat to human health, with lung damage evident even in early stages. Effective and low-risk treatments are essential. This study evaluated a novel herbal formulation comprising eight plants: Angelica archangelica, Dioscorea bulbifera, Fagopyrum dibotrys, Myrtus communis, Nasturtium officinale, Perilla frutescens, Catharanthus roseus, and Solanum xanthocarpum. The formulation was tested against PM-induced lung tissue damage in Wistar albino rats at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg over 30 days. Terminal blood samples were analyzed for hematology and differential cell count, including bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), showing significant reductions in inflammatory cells. Histopathological findings revealed PM-induced inflammation, alveolar deformation, and edema, which were progressively reduced across treatment groups, with the 400 mg/kg dose showing the greatest therapeutic effect.