Abstract

Introduction: Pro-inflammatory/anti-inflammatory cytokine and oxidant/antioxidant imbalances develop in acute respiratory distress syndrome cases, a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in childhood. This study aims to investigate whether Achillea millefolium, with its antioxidant and anti inflammatory effects, can be used in the treatment of acute lung injury.

Methods: A total of 36 male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Acute lung injury was induced by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Serum samples were analyzed for TNF-α, IL-10, native thiol, total thiol, and disulfide levels. Lung samples were examined using hematoxylin-eosin staining.

Results: A significant difference was observed in TNF-α values among groups (p=0.003). CLP group showed higher TNF-α values compared to the control group (50.88±5.21 vs. 34.13±9.89 pg/mL, p=0.002), and histologically demonstrated increased scores of lymphocytes, fibroblasts, histiocytes, neutrophils, hemorrhage, and congestion (p=0.006, p<0.001, p=0.007, p=0.001, and p=0.001, respectively). TNF-α values in the CLP+AM group showed a statistically significant decrease compared to the CLP group (50.88±5.21 vs. 38.59±11.65 pg/mL, p=0.035), and histologically, scores of lymphocytes, fibroblasts, histiocytes, neutrophils, hemorrhage, and congestion were reduced (p=0.017, p=0.005, p=0.007, p=0.001, and p=0.02, respectively). CLP+D group also showed a non-significant decrease in TNF-α values compared to the CLP group (50.88±5.21 vs. 39.31±5.09 pg/mL, p=0.055), but histologically, congestion, fibroblast, and histiocyte scores were significantly reduced (p=0.015 and p=0.002, respectively). There was no statistically significant difference among other groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion: This study suggests that Achillea millefolium, with its anti-inflammatory effect, may be used in the treatment of acute lung injury. However, clinical studies are needed to support these findings.