Biological Efficacy of Desmostachya bipinnata Grass against Allergy and Hypersensitivity using different Experimental Models

The objective of the study is to evaluate antiallergic and antihypertensive activities of ethanolic extract of Desmostachya bipinnata. Oral administration of 250 and 500mg/kg of D. bipinnata extract was used to study the effects of the test drug on animal models of allergic reactions, including milk-induced eosinophilia and leukocytosis, compound 48/80-induced mast cell degranulation, and active and passive anaphylaxis. Additionally, the effects of D. bipinnata extract on sensitised guinea pig ilea (ex-vivo) and tracheal chain preparations were tested and evaluated (in-vitro). Results showed that compound 48/80 in the mesenteric area reduced mast cell degranulation and allergic reactions significantly after treatment with D. bipinnata extract at 500mg/kg dose. Further, studies shown that D. bipinnata can prevent the contractions generated by acetylcholine, histamine, and antigen in the ileum of sensitive Guinea pigs. Results showed that test drug can also neutralise free radicals (in vitro). Anti-allergic and anti-anaphylactic effects of D. bipinnata extract may be due to the presence of phytoconstituents on mast cell membranes.