Revealing the mechanism and efficacy of natural products on treating the asthma: Current insights from traditional medicine to modern drug discovery

Heliyon. 2024 May 28;10(11):e32008. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32008. eCollection 2024 Jun 15.

Abstract

Asthma remains a significant global health challenge, demanding innovative approaches to treatment. Traditional medicine has a rich history of using natural products to alleviate asthmatic symptoms. However, transitioning from these traditional remedies to modern drug discovery approaches has provided fresh insights into the mechanisms and effectiveness of these natural products. This study provides our comprehensive review, which examines the current state of knowledge in the treatment of asthma. It delves into the mechanisms through which natural products ameliorate asthma symptoms, and it discusses their potential in the development of novel therapeutic interventions. Our analysis reveals that natural products, traditionally employed for asthma relief, exhibit diverse mechanisms of action. These include anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, immunomodulatory effects, and reducing gene expression. In the context of modern drug discovery, these natural compounds serve as valuable candidates for the development of novel asthma therapies. The transition from traditional remedies to modern drug discovery represents a promising avenue for asthma treatment. Our review highlights the substantial efficacy of natural products in managing asthma symptoms, underpinned by well-defined mechanisms of action. By bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary approaches, we contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field, emphasizing the potential of natural products in shaping the future of asthma therapy.

Keywords: Anti-inflammatory; Asthma; Efficacy; Herbal medicines; Immunomodulatory; Modern drug; Natural product; Traditional medicine.

Publication types

  • Review