ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To observe the antitussive and antiasthmatic effects of Radix Fici Hirtae (RFH). METHODS: Antitussive effects were observed by ammonia water steaming test in mice and by citric acid test in guinea pigs. Antiasthmatic actions in guinea pigs were observed by histamine and acetylcholine ultrasonic atomization test, involved isolated guinea pig tracheal smoth muscle experiment and anaphylactic shock of guinea pigs. RESULTS: RFH decreased the frequency of cough induced by ammonia in mice and by citric acid in guinea pig, prolonged the latent period of cough and inhibited the experimental asthma by histamine and acetylcholine solution in conscious guinea pigs, antagonisted the contraction of tracheal smooth muscle by histamine phosphate in guinea pigs and could compete anaphylactic shock in guinea pigs. CONCLUSION: RFH has obvious antitussive and antiasthmatic effects.
