T h e r a p e u t i c I n d e x 27 3. Antitussive action: Ocimum sanctum exerts an antitussive effect by central action, probably mediated by both opioid and GABAergic systems, which soothes the cough associated with various reversible airway disorders including those of allergic origin. Adhatoda vasica has antitussive activity comparable to that of codeine. 4. Mucolytic action: Adhatoda vasica is widely used as a mucolytic, which may be helpful in relieving the viscous sputum associated with various coughs. 5. Antimicrobial action: Ocimum sanctum, Curcuma longa, Embelia ribes, Cinnamomum tamala, Triphala, and Elettaria cardamomum have antimicrobial activity against common respiratory pathogens. Mesuol and mesuone present in Mesua ferrea are found to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Streptococcus pyogenes. The extract of Cyperus rotundus has shown remarkable activity against gram-positive bacteria. 6. Anti-inflammatory action: Ocimum sanctum and Cyperus rotundus have strong anti-inflammatory action that controls the inflammation associated with inflammatory respiratory conditions. Curcuma longa contains curcumin, a potent blocker of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), which is linked to allergy and asthma. Curcuma longa and Ocimum sanctum modulate the formation of tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), nitric oxide (NO), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in monocytes, and thus contribute to the anti-inflammatory effect of Bresol. 7. Antioxidant action: Oxidative stress has an important role to play in the etiopathology of allergic respiratory tract diseases. Curcuma longa is a potent polyphenolic antioxidant. Ocimum sanctum has remarkable nitric oxide synthase inhibitory activity, and is regarded as a potent antioxidant that may be helpful in allergic respiratory disorders. 8. Other activities: The piperine present in Piper nigrum and Piper longum (ingredients of Trikatu) has shown to be a bioavailability enhancer, either by promoting rapid absorption from the GI tract, or by protecting the drug from being metabolized/oxidized in its first passage through the liver after being absorbed, or by a combination of both the mechanisms. Bresol® (syrup, tablet)
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