The potential application and molecular mechanisms of natural products in the treatment of allergic rhinitis: A review

Abstract

Backgrounds: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a non-infectious chronic inflammation of the nasal mucosa mainly mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) in atopic individuals after exposure to allergens. The application of AR guideline-recommended pharmacotherapies can rapidly relieve symptoms of AR but with poor long-term efficacy, and many of these therapies have side effects. Many natural products and their derivatives have shown potential therapeutic effects on AR with fewer side effects.

Objectives: This review aims to expand understanding of the roles and mechanisms of natural compounds in the treatment of AR and to highlight the importance of utilizing natural products in the treatment of AR.

Material and method: We conducted a systematic literature search using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Clinical Trials. The search was performed using keywords including natural products, natural compounds, bioproducts, plant extracts, naturally derived products, natural resources, allergic rhinitis, hay fever, pollinosis, nasal allergy. Comprehensive research and compilation of existing literature were conducted.

Results: This article provided a comprehensive review of the potential therapeutic effects and mechanisms of natural compounds in the treatment of AR. We emphasized that natural products primarily exert their effects by modulating signalling pathways such as NF-κB, MAPKs, STAT3/ROR-γt/Foxp3, and GATA3/T-bet, thereby inhibiting the activation and expansion of allergic inflammation. We also discussed their toxicity and clinical applications in AR therapy.

Conclusion: Taken together, natural products exhibit great potential in the treatment of AR. This review is also expected to facilitate the application of natural products as candidates for treating AR. Furthermore, drug discovery based on natural products has a promising prospect in AR treatment.

Keywords: Allergic rhinitis; GATA3/T-bet; Mast cells and T cells; NF-κB and MAPKs; Natural products; STAT3/ROR-γt/Foxp3.