Abstract

Allergic diseases are fairly common in all parts of the world and involve all ethnic groups with bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and eczema being the commonest manifestations. Despite our efforts, their incidence is on an escalating path. The use of herbal remedies and standardized extracts for treatment of allergy and other diseases has been gaining momentum in recent years. The qualitative and quantitative determination of phyto-chemicals and assessment of the anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities using aqueous and organic extracts of different plant parts (root, stem and leaves) of Mentha arvensis in animals showed that all parts of M. arvensis (specifically, leaves) are rich source of secondary phytoconstituents, which impart their therapeutic effects against allergic andinflammatory diseases. These results support the claim about the use of this herb in folk medicines.

Key words: Anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory activity, medicinal plants, Mentha arvensis,Pakistan.