Machilus macrantha is large tree (Family: Lauraceae) commonly known as Golum. In India it is mainly found in Maharashtra, Bihar and Assam up to an altitude of 2100 M. Traditionally stems bark of Machilus macrantha are used in treatment of asthma consumption and rheumatism. Recent pharmacological study is reported with respect to its anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was preliminary screening of various extracts of stem bark of Machilus macrantha for their possible antihistaminic or parasympatholytic activity. The plant material was collected from Lonavala region, District-Pune, Maharashtra, India. Dried powdered bark was successively extracted with pet. Ether (40-60°C), chloroform, acetone and water by increasing its polarity. The present results of pharmacological screening indicate that all extracts of Machilus macrantha bark showed competitive inhibitory activity (significant increase in Preconvulsion time) against bronchospasm induced by Ach and Histamine in guinea pigs compared with the standard drugs like Chlorpheniramine maleate and atropine of which Chloroform and USM (unsaponifiable matter form pet ether extract) fraction of bark showed significant Inhibit histamine & Acetylcholine induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs.
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