Ligusticum wallichii medicinal material drying method and application of ligusticum wallichii or extract thereof in preparation of external medicine for treating specific dermatitis

Abstract

The invention provides a rhizoma chuanxiong medicinal material drying method and application of rhizoma chuanxiong or an extract thereof in preparation of an external medicine for treating specific dermatitis. According to the rhizoma chuanxiong medicinal material drying method, the rhizoma chuanxiong processing efficiency is improved, and the processing period is shortened; preparing decoction pieces, and obtaining a byproduct ligusticum wallichii dew; the energy consumption and the production cost are reduced. The rhizoma chuanxiong essential oil and the rhizoma chuanxiong dew are both composed of small molecule components, have good affinity to skin, are quick in transdermal absorption effect, can quickly relieve symptoms such as pruritus and skin lesion caused by atopic dermatitis, and are natural and safe in components and free of side effects. Meanwhile, micromolecular components contained in the ligusticum wallichii essential oil and the ligusticum wallichii dew have better lipophilicity, have a softening effect on cuticle thickening caused by the specific dermatitis, and are more beneficial to drug absorption. In addition, the ligusticum wallichii volatile oil and the ligusticum wallichii dew are simple to prepare and low in price.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to application of chuanxiong rhizome or extract thereof in preparing external medicine for treating atopic dermatitis. Background Art

[0002] Chuanxiong is the dried rhizome of the plant Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. of the Umbelliferae family. It is a traditional Chinese medicine with a long history of use. Chuanxiong is warm in nature, pungent and slightly bitter in taste, and enters the liver, gallbladder, and pericardium meridians. Chuanxiong has the effects of promoting blood circulation and qi, dispelling wind and relieving pain. It is used for chest pain, heart pain, chest and flank pain, swelling and pain due to falls, irregular menstruation, amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain due to lumps, headache, and rheumatic pain. Chinese herbal medicine slices are one of the basic forms of clinical medication in traditional Chinese medicine. They are not only an important raw material for Chinese patent medicines, but also a key link in the development of the entire Chinese medicine industry. Therefore, the quality of the slices will directly affect the clinical efficacy. In recent years, the state has increased the management of the quality of Chinese herbal medicine slices, but problems such as insufficient content of active ingredients continue to emerge, mainly related to improper soaking time of medicinal materials, processing at the place of origin, and irregular preparation of slices. In order to ensure the quality of Chinese herbal medicines and solve problems such as cross-duplication, complicated processing operations and lack of quantitative indicators, some scholars have proposed the concept of integrating Chinese medicine processing at the origin and preparation of herbal medicines (hereinafter referred to as "integration").

[0003] At present, the 2020 edition of the "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" describes the medicinal material processing and decoction slice processing of Chuanxiong separately, that is, Chuanxiong medicinal materials "are harvested in summer when the nodes on the stem are significantly prominent and slightly purple, the mud and sand are removed, and the skin is dried after sun drying, and the fibrous roots are removed", and the processing of decoction slices is stipulated as "removing impurities, separating sizes, washing, moistening, cutting into thick slices, and drying".

[0004] The traditional processing method in the production area has the following problems: (1) The traditional processing technology requires one water treatment and two drying processes from fresh medicine to decoction pieces, and the processing procedure is complicated; (2) Processing relies on personal experience, which increases the error caused by human factors; (3) The processing time is long, and it is difficult to standardize and quantify the processing process; (4) The long production cycle is prone to loss of effective ingredients, which reduces the efficacy of the decoction pieces. Therefore, in view of the above defects, the present invention provides a method for preparing Chuanxiong using microwave vacuum drying technology.

[0005] The main effects and functions of Chuanxiong include the following aspects: 1. Activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis: Chuanxiong is rich in active ingredients such as volatile oils and ligustrazine, which can promote blood circulation, improve microcirculation disorders, prevent thrombosis, and relieve pain caused by blood stasis. 2. Relaxing tendons and activating collaterals: Chuanxiong has a certain conditioning effect on tendons and veins, which can relieve the tension and stiffness of tendons and veins, promote the softness and activity of tendons and veins, and help relieve muscle pain and joint discomfort. 3. Relieve pain: Chuanxiong can improve local blood circulation and reduce blood retention through the effect of activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis, thereby alleviating pain symptoms. In addition, external application of Chuanxiong has anti-inflammatory effects, can promote wound healing, and improve blood circulation. In addition, it has been reported that external application of Chuanxiong can activate blood circulation and remove blood stasis, and can be used to treat some skin diseases, such as urticaria, eczema, etc. Because Chuanxiong contains volatile oils, alkaloids, organic acids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides, as well as compounds such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, dibutyl phthalate, as well as 6-hydroxymethyl-3-hydroxypyridine, niacin and other ingredients.

[0006] Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, recurrent, inflammatory skin disease with a genetic predisposition, which is usually closely related to allergic factors. The typical symptoms of atopic dermatitis include: Dry skin: The patient's skin often feels dry, especially in the acute stage. Itching: The patient will have severe itching, which is one of the main symptoms of atopic dermatitis. Papules: White papules may appear after the skin is slightly stimulated, especially on the limbs. Erosions and hypertrophy: The skin may show symptoms such as erosion, exudation, desquamation and scabs, and hypertrophy may also occur in severe cases. Polymorphic skin lesions: The skin lesions of atopic dermatitis can be polymorphic, including erythema, papules, blisters, etc. Exudative tendency: The skin lesions of atopic dermatitis have an exudative tendency, especially in the acute stage. Complications: Severe patients may develop complications such as asthma, allergic enteritis, allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis.

[0007] Treatments for atopic dermatitis include: Topical moisturizing cream: Keep the skin moisturized and relieve dryness symptoms. Topical medications: Desonide cream or zinc oxide ointment can be used for mild symptoms. Zinc oxide oil can be used in the acute phase when there is no exudate, and 3% boric acid solution can be used for wet compresses when there is a lot of exudate. After the exudate decreases, glucocorticoid creams such as hydrocortisone butyrate ointment or halometasone cream can be used, which are usually combined with antibiotic ointments. Systemic medication: Internal antihistamines and non-large cell membrane stabilizers such as ketotifen and cetirizine are used to relieve itching, erythema and congestion. Physical therapy: Narrow-band medium-wave ultraviolet irradiation has a good effect on atopic dermatitis. Immunotherapy: Different drugs are selected according to the severity of the disease and the urgency of the onset, such as corticosteroids, cyclosporine, thymopentin, interferon, etc. Desensitization therapy: Desensitization therapy is performed based on the results of the intradermal allergen test.

[0008] Eczema and atopic dermatitis (AD) are two different skin diseases. Eczema is a broader term that includes many types of inflammatory skin diseases, which are manifested by symptoms such as skin redness, itching, and blisters. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a genetic tendency, which is usually related to allergic constitution and manifested by dry skin, severe itching and polymorphic skin lesions. Atopic dermatitis is closely related to genetic allergic constitution. Patients often have a family history of allergies. The onset of the disease is related to abnormal skin barrier function and imbalanced immune regulation. The pathogenesis of eczema is relatively complex and can be induced by a variety of internal and external factors, including contact with allergens and chemical stimulation. Genetic factors are not as prominent as atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis usually has specific predilection sites, such as the flexor sites such as the elbows, popliteal fossa, and neck. The skin is obviously dry, often accompanied by severe itching, and the rash is mostly lichenified. Eczema can occur in any part of the body. The acute phase is mainly characterized by erythema, papules, and blisters, with a tendency to exudate, and the chronic phase is mainly characterized by hypertrophy and roughness of the skin. Atopic dermatitis is more common in children, especially in infancy, and some patients may have symptoms that persist into adulthood. Eczema can occur at any age, and the clinical manifestations may vary in different age groups.

[0009] There is no relevant literature reporting on which components of Chuanxiong are effective for external application in the treatment of atopic dermatitis. Summary of the invention

[0010] The technical solution of the present invention is to provide a method for drying Ligusticum chuanxiong medicinal material; the present invention also provides a new use of Ligusticum chuanxiong or its extract.

[0011] The invention provides a method for drying a chuanxiong medicinal material, which adopts a microwave vacuum drying method to dry fresh chuanxiong.

[0012] Specifically, the method comprises the following steps: taking fresh chuanxiong, removing impurities and non-medicinal parts, rapidly rinsing, placing in a cool and ventilated place, drying in the shade, slicing, microwave vacuum drying at 50°C for 2-3h, and sieving out debris to obtain the product.

[0013] Preferably, the slices have a diameter of 2-7 cm and a thickness of 2-6 mm; and the drying time is 2 hours.

[0014] The present invention also provides the use of Chuanxiong or its extract in preparing an external medicine for treating atopic dermatitis.

[0015] Wherein, the medicine is a medicine with antipruritic effect.

[0016] Wherein, the Chuanxiong extract is Chuanxiong essential oil or Chuanxiong dew.

[0017] The Chuanxiong dew is a byproduct obtained by drying fresh Chuanxiong using the Chuanxiong medicinal material drying method and passing through a condensation device.

[0018] Wherein, the external pharmaceutical preparation is: gel, paste, emulsion, ointment, spray, aerosol, lotion, rinse, liniment, paint, film coating.

[0019] The method for drying the medicinal material of Rhizoma Chuanxiong of the present invention improves the processing efficiency of Rhizoma Chuanxiong and shortens the processing cycle; in addition to preparing the decoction pieces, a byproduct Rhizoma Chuanxiong dew is obtained; energy consumption is reduced and production costs are reduced. The Rhizoma Chuanxiong essential oil and Rhizoma Chuanxiong dew of the present invention are both composed of small molecule components, and because they have good affinity to the skin, they are quickly absorbed through the skin and can quickly relieve symptoms such as itching and skin lesions caused by atopic dermatitis, and the components are natural, safe and have no side effects. At the same time, the small molecule components contained in the Rhizoma Chuanxiong essential oil and Rhizoma Chuanxiong dew have good lipophilicity, have a softening effect on the thickening of the stratum corneum caused by atopic dermatitis, and are more conducive to drug absorption. In addition, the Rhizoma Chuanxiong volatile oil and Rhizoma Chuanxiong dew are simple to prepare and low in price. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Figure 1 Characteristic diagram of different Chuanxiong slices (Note: A low temperature dried Chuanxiong slices; B Chuanxiong slices processed at the place of origin; C vacuum dried Chuanxiong slices; D microwave vacuum Chuanxiong slices). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] Example 1 Preparation of Chuanxiong essential oil of the present invention

[0022] Take slices of Chuanxiong, crush them, and pass them through a No. 4 sieve. Take about 500g of powder, weigh it, put it in a flask, add appropriate amount of distilled water according to 1:6 (slices: water, w / v), and soak for 30 minutes. Connect the volatile oil extractor and reflux condenser, reflux and extract until the amount of oil in the extractor no longer increases, and stop heating. Slowly drain the water layer and retain the upper oil layer to obtain Chuanxiong volatile oil (Chuanxiong essential oil).

[0023] Example 2 Preparation of Chuanxiong Dew of the Present Invention

[0024] Microwave vacuum drying integrated medicinal slices: Take fresh Chuanxiong, remove impurities and non-medicinal parts, quickly rinse, place in a cool and ventilated place, dry in the shade, slice (thickness is about 2 mm), microwave vacuum dry at 50°C for 2 to 3 hours, sieve out debris, and obtain dried Chuanxiong medicinal materials; collect the by-product Chuanxiong dew produced in the processing process through a condensation device.

[0025] Example 3 Drying method of the medicinal material Chuanxiong of the present invention

[0026] Take fresh Chuanxiong, remove impurities and non-medicinal parts, rinse quickly, place in a cool and ventilated place, dry in the shade, slice (thickness is about 2mm), microwave vacuum dry at 50℃ for 2-3h, sieve out debris, and you are done.

[0027] Example 4 Comparison of the present invention's Chuanxiong drying method with traditional Chuanxiong technology and modern Chuanxiong drying method

[0028] 1. Preparation of herbal medicine pieces with different processing methods

[0029] Traditional decoction pieces Take 10kg of fresh Chuanxiong, remove impurities and non-medicinal parts, and place in a cool and ventilated place to dry in the shade to obtain Chuanxiong medicinal materials. Rinse the above Chuanxiong medicinal materials quickly to remove impurities such as mud and sand, add water to moisten until the heart is thoroughly moistened, slice (thickness is about 2-4mm), dry, and sieve out debris to obtain the Chuanxiong medicinal materials.

[0030] Low-temperature drying integrated medicinal pieces: Take 10 kg of fresh Chuanxiong, remove impurities and non-medicinal parts, rinse quickly, place in a cool and ventilated place, dry in the shade, slice (thickness is about 2 mm), dry at 50°C for 12 hours, sieve out debris, and the product is obtained.

[0031] Vacuum drying integrated medicinal pieces: Take 10 kg of fresh Chuanxiong, remove impurities and non-medicinal parts, quickly rinse, place in a cool and ventilated place, dry in the shade, slice (thickness is about 2 mm), vacuum dry at 50°C for 8 hours, sieve out debris, and the product is obtained.

[0032] Microwave vacuum drying integrated medicinal slices: Take 10 kg of fresh Chuanxiong, remove impurities and non-medicinal parts, quickly rinse, place in a cool and ventilated place, dry in the shade, slice (thickness is about 2 mm), microwave vacuum dry at 50°C for 2 h, sieve out debris, and the product is obtained.

[0033] 2. Appearance evaluation method

[0034] The scoring criteria for the properties of low-temperature dried Chuanxiong slices, local processed Chuanxiong slices, vacuum dried Chuanxiong slices, and microwave vacuum Chuanxiong slices were evaluated based on the color and smell of Chuanxiong slices, as shown in Table 1. Figure 1 .

[0035] Table 1 Scoring criteria for properties of Ligusticum chuanxiong processed by microwave vacuum

[0036]

[0037]

[0038] 3. Determination of volatile oil content

[0039] Refer to the method A under the 2020 edition of the "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" Volatile Oil Determination Method (General Rule 2204) for determination. The specific method is: This method is suitable for the determination of volatile oils with a relative density below 1.0. Take 500g of the test sample (equivalent to 0.5-1.0ml of volatile oil), weigh it (accurate to 0.01g), put it in a flask, add 3000ml of water (or appropriate amount) and a few glass beads, shake and mix, and connect the volatile oil analyzer and the reflux condenser. Add water from the upper end of the condenser to fill the scale part of the volatile oil analyzer and overflow into the flask. Place it in an electric heating jacket and heat it slowly to boiling, and keep it at a slight boil for about 5 hours until the amount of oil in the analyzer no longer increases. Stop heating, let it stand for a while, open the piston at the lower end of the analyzer, and slowly release the water until the upper end of the oil layer reaches 5mm above the scale 0 line. Leave it for more than 1 hour, then open the piston to allow the oil layer to drop until its upper end is just flush with the 0 line on the scale, read the amount of volatile oil, and calculate the content (%) of volatile oil in the test sample.

[0040] 4. Determination of Ferulic Acid Content

[0041] Determine with reference to the 2020 edition of the "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" high performance liquid chromatography method (General Rule 0512). The specific method is: octadecylsilane bonded silica gel as filler; methanol-0.5% acetic acid solution as mobile phase; detection wavelength is 285nm. The theoretical plate number calculated based on the ferulic acid peak should be no less than 4000.

[0042] Preparation of reference solution: Take an appropriate amount of ferulic acid reference substance, weigh it accurately, place it in a brown volumetric flask, and add 70% methanol to make a solution containing 200 μg per 1 ml.

[0043] Preparation of test solution: Take about 1 g of the powder of the product (passed through a No. 4 sieve), weigh it accurately, put it in a stoppered conical flask, add 40 ml of 70% methanol accurately, stopper it, weigh it, heat and ultrasonicate it for 30 minutes, cool it, weigh it again, make up the lost weight with 70% methanol, shake it well, let it stand, take the supernatant, filter it, and take the filtrate to obtain the solution.

[0044] Determination method: Accurately pipette 10μl of reference solution and test solution respectively, inject into liquid chromatograph, and determine.

[0045] 5. Evaluation method

[0046] When different indicators are used to examine the samples of Chuanxiong treated by different methods, the indicators affect each other. Therefore, a comprehensive score is conducted, and the Hassan method is used to normalize the overall score of the five indicators selected in this experiment, and the result data is standardized to an "overall desirability OD" between 0 and 1. Regardless of whether the original indicator is the larger the better or the smaller the better, the OD value obtained after treatment is the larger the better, which can directly reflect the advantages and disadvantages of each experimental method. In this experiment, the larger the trait score, volatile oil content, ferulic acid content and yield, the better, and the calculation formula is: di = (Yi-Ymin) / (Ymax-Ymin); the shorter the working time, the better, and the calculation formula is: di = (Ymax-Yi) / (Ymax-Ymin), where Ymin is the minimum value of the indicator; Ymax is the maximum value of the indicator. Combined with the literature, the comprehensive score calculation formula is: total score = % × d 性状 +15%×d 挥发油含量 +15%×d 阿魏酸含量 +40%×d 加工时间 +15%×d 收率 )×100. The results showed that the quality of Chuanxiong produced by microwave vacuum drying process was significantly better than that of the other three processes, and the processing time was shortened by 6 to 24 times.

[0047] Table 2 The results of the determination of various indicators of Chuanxiong prepared by different processing methods

[0048]

[0049] The beneficial effects of the present invention are demonstrated by pharmacodynamic tests as follows.

[0050] Experimental Example 1: Experiment on the treatment of acute pruritus model mice with Chuanxiong essential oil ointment

[0051] According to the classification of the itch-causing substances used to establish the model, acute pruritus of skin origin can be divided into two types: histamine-dependent and non-histamine-dependent. Histamine phosphate is a commonly used histamine-dependent itch-causing agent, and non-histamine-dependent itch-causing substances mainly include chloroquine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, LP44, etc. Based on the above-mentioned acute itch model induced by itch-causing agents, the pharmacodynamic effect of Chuanxiong essential oil (prepared according to Example 1) in treating the acute itch model induced by different itch-causing agents in mice was explored from the perspective of mouse behavior.

[0052] 1. Experimental study on the treatment of chloroquine-induced acute pruritus model mice with Chuanxiong essential oil ointment

[0053] Based on the chloroquine-induced acute pruritus model in mice, the pharmacodynamic effect of Chuanxiong essential oil ointment on acute pruritus in mice was explored from the perspective of mouse behavior.

[0054] (1) Establishment of histamine-induced acute pruritus model in mice

[0055] After 1 week of adaptive feeding, 5-week-old ICR male mice were randomly divided into 5 groups, 8 mice in each group, including blank control group, chloroquine group, chloroquine + 0.5% essential oil low-dose group, chloroquine + 1% essential oil medium-dose group, and chloroquine + 2% essential oil high-dose group. The hair on the right side of the neck and back of the mice was shaved, with a shaved area of ​​1 cm × 2 cm.

[0056] (2) Preparation method of essential oil ointment

[0057] White vaseline was heated in a 55°C water bath and stirred until melted, and Chuanxiong essential oil was added and stirred evenly until condensed into essential oil ointments with concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 2%, that is, every 100g of ointment contained 0.5mL, 1mL, and 2mL of Chuanxiong essential oil.

[0058] (3) Administration

[0059] 50uL of chloroquine solution (4mg / mL) was intradermally injected into the hair removal area on the back of the neck of the mice to induce itching. Except for the blank control group and the model group, which were smeared with 100mg of vaseline, the other groups were given 100mg of the corresponding ointment on the hair removal area. After the application, the mice were immediately placed in an observation box, and their behavior was recorded for 30 minutes without external interference.

[0060] After the video recording was completed, the video was saved for subsequent review to record the itch behavior of the mice. The scratching behavior of the mice was counted, and one scratch was counted as one time when the mouse raised its hind paw to scratch the injection site once or more until the hind paw fell to the ground or the paw was retracted and paused. The number of scratches of mice in different groups was statistically analyzed.

[0061] (4) Experimental results

[0062] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.05), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, there was no significant difference in the low-dose essential oil group, and there was no significant improvement on the chloroquine-induced pruritus of mice. The low-dose essential oil group significantly reduced (P < 0.5), the medium-dose essential oil group significantly reduced (P < 0.01), and the high-dose essential oil group also significantly reduced the number of scratching times (P < 0.01), indicating that both 1% and 2% concentrations of essential oil ointment have a significant improvement on chloroquine-induced acute pruritus in mice.

[0063] Table 3 Acute itching and scratching of mice treated with essential oil ointment after chloroquine

[0064] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank control group 25.38±9.93 Chloroquine + vaseline group <![CDATA[93.00±33.65 ## ]]> Chloroquine + essential oil low dose group <![CDATA[54.88±17.76 * ]]> Chloroquine + essential oil medium dose group <![CDATA[11.00±4.31 ** ]]> Chloroquine + essential oil high dose group <![CDATA[13.88±4.87 ** ]]>

[0065] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, *p<0.5, **p<0.01, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, ##p<0.05.)

[0066] 2. Experimental study on the treatment of LP44-induced acute pruritus model mice with Chuanxiong essential oil ointment

[0067] Based on the LP44-induced acute pruritus model in mice, the pharmacodynamic effect of Chuanxiong essential oil ointment on acute pruritus in mice was explored from the perspective of mouse behavior.

[0068] (1) Establishment of LP44-induced acute pruritus model in mice

[0069] After 1 week of adaptive feeding, 5-week-old ICR male mice were randomly divided into 5 groups, namely, blank control group, LP44 group, LP44+0.5% essential oil low-dose group, LP44+1% essential oil medium-dose group, and LP44+2% essential oil high-dose group, with 8 mice in each group. The hair on the right side of the neck and back of the mice was shaved, with a shaved area of ​​1 cm×2 cm.

[0070] (2) Preparation method of essential oil ointment

[0071] White vaseline was heated in a 55°C water bath and stirred until melted, and Chuanxiong essential oil was added and stirred evenly until condensed into essential oil ointments with concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 2%, that is, every 100g of ointment contained 0.5mL, 1mL, and 2mL of Chuanxiong essential oil.

[0072] (3) Administration

[0073] 50uL LP44 solution (0.003mg / mL) was intradermally injected into the hair removal area of ​​the neck and back of the mice to induce itching. Except for the blank control group and the model group, which were smeared with 100mg of vaseline, the other groups were given 100mg of the corresponding ointment at the hair removal area. After the application, the mice were immediately placed in an observation box, and their behavior was recorded for 30 minutes without external interference.

[0074] After the video recording was completed, the video was saved for subsequent review to record the itch behavior of the mice. The scratching behavior of the mice was counted, and one scratch was counted as one time when the mouse raised its hind paw to scratch the injection site once or more until the hind paw fell to the ground or the paw was retracted and paused. The number of scratches of mice in different groups was statistically analyzed.

[0075] (4) Experimental results

[0076] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.05), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, there was no significant difference in the low-dose essential oil group, and there was no significant improvement in the LP44-induced itching of mice. The medium-dose essential oil group significantly reduced the number of scratching times (P < 0.01), and the high-dose essential oil group also significantly reduced the number of scratching times (P < 0.01), indicating that both 1% and 2% concentrations of essential oil ointment have a significant improvement effect on LP44-induced acute itching of mice.

[0077] Table 4 Acute itching and scratching of mice LP44 treated with essential oil ointment

[0078] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank control group 25.38±9.93 LP44+Vaseline group <![CDATA[90±17.51 ## ]]> LP44+ low dose essential oil group 79.5±18.76 LP44+essential oil medium dose group <![CDATA[34.5±6.52 ** <!-- 6 -->]]> LP44+ essential oil high dose group <![CDATA[17.75±5.11 ** ]]>

[0079] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, *p<0.5, **p<0.01, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, ##p<0.05.)

[0080] 3. Experimental study on the treatment of serotonin-induced acute pruritus model mice with Chuanxiong essential oil ointment

[0081] Based on the serotonin-induced acute pruritus model in mice, the pharmacodynamic effect of Chuanxiong essential oil ointment on acute pruritus in mice was explored from the perspective of mouse behavior.

[0082] (1) Establishment of serotonin-induced acute itch model in mice

[0083] After 1 week of adaptive feeding, 5-week-old ICR male mice were randomly divided into 5 groups, 8 mice in each group, including blank control group, serotonin group, serotonin + 0.5% essential oil low-dose group, serotonin + 1% essential oil medium-dose group, and serotonin + 2% essential oil high-dose group. The hair on the right side of the neck and back of the mice was shaved, with a shaved area of ​​1 cm × 2 cm.

[0084] (2) Preparation method of essential oil ointment

[0085] White vaseline was heated in a 55°C water bath and stirred until melted, and Chuanxiong essential oil was added and stirred evenly until condensed into essential oil ointments with concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 2%.

[0086] (3) Administration

[0087] 50uL of serotonin solution (0.003mg / mL) was injected intradermally at the depilatory site on the back of the mouse neck to induce itching. Except for the blank control group and the model group, which were smeared with 100mg of vaseline, the other groups were given 100mg of the corresponding ointment at the depilatory site. After the application, the mice were immediately placed in an observation box, and their behavior was recorded for 30 minutes without external interference.

[0088] After the video recording was completed, the video was saved for subsequent review to record the itch behavior of the mice. The scratching behavior of the mice was counted, and one scratch was counted as one time when the mouse raised its hind paw to scratch the injection site once or more until the hind paw fell to the ground or the paw was retracted and paused. The number of scratches of mice in different groups was statistically analyzed.

[0089] (4) Experimental results

[0090] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.005), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, there was no significant difference in the low-dose essential oil group, and there was no significant improvement on serotonin-induced pruritus in mice. The low-dose essential oil group and the medium-dose essential oil group significantly reduced the number of scratching times (P < 0.05), and the high-dose essential oil group also significantly reduced the number of scratching times (P < 0.001), indicating that both 1% and 2% concentrations of essential oil ointment have a significant improvement on serotonin-induced acute pruritus in mice.

[0091] Table 5 Acute pruritus and scratching of mice treated with essential oil ointment

[0092] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank control group 27.5±8.79 Serotonin + Vaseline Group <![CDATA[71.88±16.87 ### ]]> Serotonin + essential oil low dose group <![CDATA[33.75±6.80 ** ]]> Serotonin + essential oil medium dose group <![CDATA[23.63±9.79 ** ]]> Serotonin + essential oil high dose group <![CDATA[10.00±3.64 *** ]]>

[0093] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, *p<0.5, **p<0.05, ***p<0.001, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, ###p<0.005.)

[0094] 4. Experimental study on the treatment of histamine-induced acute pruritus model mice with Chuanxiong essential oil ointment

[0095] Based on the histamine-induced acute pruritus model in mice, the pharmacodynamic effect of Chuanxiong essential oil ointment on acute pruritus in mice was explored from the perspective of mouse behavior.

[0096] (1) Establishment of histamine-induced acute pruritus model in mice

[0097] After 1 week of adaptive feeding, 5-week-old ICR male mice were randomly divided into 5 groups, including blank control group, histamine group, histamine + 0.5% essential oil low-dose group, histamine + 1% essential oil medium-dose group, and histamine + 2% essential oil high-dose group, with 8 mice in each group. The hair on the right side of the neck and back of the mice was shaved, with a shaved area of ​​1 cm × 2 cm.

[0098] (2) Preparation method of essential oil ointment

[0099] White vaseline was heated in a 55°C water bath and stirred until melted, and Chuanxiong essential oil was added and stirred evenly until condensed into essential oil ointments with concentrations of 0.5%, 1%, and 2%.

[0100] (3) Administration

[0101] 50uL of histamine solution (0.003mg / mL) was injected intradermally at the depilatory site on the back of the mouse neck to induce itching. Except for the blank control group and the model group, which were smeared with 100mg of vaseline, the other groups were given 100mg of the corresponding ointment at the depilatory site. After the application, the mice were immediately placed in an observation box, and their behavior was recorded for 30 minutes without external interference.

[0102] After the video recording was completed, the video was saved for subsequent review to record the itch behavior of the mice. The scratching behavior of the mice was counted, and one scratch was counted as one time when the mouse raised its hind paw to scratch the injection site once or more until the hind paw fell to the ground or the paw was retracted and paused. The number of scratches of mice in different groups was statistically analyzed.

[0103] (4) Experimental results

[0104] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.005), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, there was no significant difference in the low-dose essential oil group, and there was no significant improvement on histamine-induced itching in mice. The low-dose essential oil group significantly reduced (P < 0.5), the medium-dose essential oil group significantly reduced (P < 0.5), and the high-dose essential oil group also significantly reduced the number of scratching times (P < 0.5), indicating that 0.5%, 1% and 2% concentrations of essential oil ointment all have a significant improvement effect on histamine-induced acute itching in mice.

[0105] Table 6 Acute itching and scratching of mice with histamine under treatment of essential oil ointment

[0106] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank control group 22.5±8.38 Histamine group <![CDATA[61.33±10.57 ### ]]> Histamine + essential oil low dose group <![CDATA[33.5±5.14 * ]]> Histamine + essential oil medium dose group <![CDATA[35.00±8.08 * ]]> Histamine + essential oil high dose group <![CDATA[34.00±10.23 * ]]>

[0107] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, *p<0.5, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, ###p<0.005.)

[0108] Experimental Example 2 Experimental study on the treatment of acute pruritus model mice with Chuanxiong dew

[0109] Based on the above-mentioned acute pruritus model induced by pruritogens, the pharmacodynamic effect of Chuanxiong Dew (prepared in Example 2) in treating acute pruritus model induced by different pruritogens in mice was explored from the perspective of mouse behavior.

[0110] The experimental scheme is as above, and the results are as follows:

[0111] 1. Experimental results of Chuanxiong dew in treating chloroquine-induced acute pruritus model mice

[0112] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.5), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, the number of scratching times of the Chuanxiong dew treatment group decreased significantly (P < 0.5), indicating that Chuanxiong dew has a significant improvement effect on chloroquine-induced acute itching in mice.

[0113] Table 7 Acute itching and scratching of mice induced by chloroquine under the treatment of Chuanxiong dew

[0114] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank group 25.38±9.93 Chloroquine group <![CDATA[93±33.65 # ]]> Chloroquine + Chuanxiong Dew Group <![CDATA[65.38±21.43 * ]]>

[0115] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, *p < 0.5, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, #p < 0.5.)

[0116] 2. Experimental results of Chuanxiong dew in treating LP44-induced acute pruritus model mice

[0117] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.001), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, the number of scratching times of the Chuanxiong dew treatment group decreased significantly (P < 0.001), indicating that Chuanxiong dew has a significant improvement effect on LP44-induced acute itching in mice.

[0118] Table 8 Acute itching and scratching of mice LP44 treated with Chuanxiong dew

[0119] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank group 25.38±9.93 LP44 Group <![CDATA[90±17.51 ### ]]> LP44+ Chuanxiong Dew Group <![CDATA[15.13±4.83 *** ]]>

[0120] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, ***p < 0.001, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, ###p < 0.001.)

[0121] 3. Experimental results of Chuanxiong dew in treating serotonin-induced acute pruritus model mice

[0122] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.01), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, the number of scratching times of the Chuanxiong dew treatment group decreased significantly (P < 0.5), indicating that Chuanxiong dew has a significant improvement effect on serotonin-induced acute itching in mice.

[0123] Table 9 Serotonin acute itching and scratching in mice treated with Chuanxiong dew

[0124] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank group 25.38±9.93 Serotonin group <![CDATA[71.88±16.87 ## ]]> Serotonin + Chuanxiong Dew Group <![CDATA[24.88±4.03 ** ]]>

[0125] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, **p < 0.01, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, ##p < 0.01.)

[0126] 4. Experimental results of Chuanxiong dew in treating histamine-induced acute pruritus model mice

[0127] Statistical analysis was performed based on the number of scratching times of mice in different groups. Compared with the blank control group, the number of itching times of mice in the model group increased significantly (P < 0.1), indicating that the model was successfully established. Compared with the model group, the number of scratching times of the Chuanxiong dew treatment group decreased significantly (P < 0.5), indicating that Chuanxiong dew has a significant improvement effect on histamine-induced acute itching in mice.

[0128] Table 10 Acute itching and scratching of mice induced by histamine under the treatment of Chuanxiong dew

[0129] Group Number of scratches within 30 minutes Blank group 25.38±9.93 Histamine group <![CDATA[50.63±10.57 # ]]> Histamine + Chuanxiong Dew Group <![CDATA[35.5±10.32 * ]]>

[0130] (Experimental data are expressed as Mean ± SEM, * indicates significant difference between each drug group and the model group, *p < 0.5, # indicates significant difference between the model group and the blank control group, #p < 0.1.)

[0131] Experimental Example 3 Experiment on the treatment of atopic dermatitis with Chuanxiong essential oil and Chuanxiong dew of the present invention

[0132] Sixty 5-week-old female BALB / c mice were fed adaptively for 1 week. The back fur of the mice was shaved 1 day before the experiment, with an area of ​​2cmx3cm. Fifty mice were randomly selected and stimulated with 200μL of 1% 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene every 3 days for 3 times; from the 12th day, 100μL of 0.5% 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene was used for stimulation every 3 days for 7 consecutive times. The induced mice were randomly divided into the model group, Chuanxiong L group (0.5% Chuanxiong essential oil), Chuanxiong M group (1% Chuanxiong essential oil), Chuanxiong H group (2% Chuanxiong essential oil), and Chuanxiong dew group. In addition, the mice with 0.9% sodium chloride solution applied to the back skin were used as blank groups, with 10 mice in each group. Chuanxiong essential oil group and Chuanxiong dew group were given 200μL of the corresponding drugs and applied to the back skin. The blank group and model group were applied with equal volumes of normal saline. Apply once a day for 1 week. On the last day of application, record the number of times each mouse scratches its back skin within 30 minutes.

[0133] The animal model of skin irritation by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB) is an atopic dermatitis (AD) model. This model induces AD-like dermatitis by applying DNCB on the skin of mice, simulating the symptoms and pathological characteristics of human atopic dermatitis.

[0134] Skin inflammation score:

[0135] After the administration, the skin damage (redness, swelling, scabs, erythema, papules and granules) on the back of the mice was observed, and the degree of skin inflammation was scored according to the following criteria: 0 point, no skin damage; 1 point, the skin barrier was intact, with only noticeable inflammation and swelling; 2 points, mild inflammation and mild skin damage, accompanied by a small amount of erythema and papules; 3 points, inflammation, redness and swelling, and a small amount of scabs at the lesion site; 4 points, obvious redness, swelling and scabs at the lesion site; 5 points, severe scabs and inflammatory exudates at the lesion site.

[0136] Experimental results:

[0137] As shown in Table 11, the skin lesions of mice with atopic dermatitis had obvious redness, swelling and scabs, and inflammatory exudation appeared on the backs of some mice. After applying Chuanxiong essential oil or Chuanxiong dew, the skin lesions were significantly improved, especially the high-dose group of Chuanxiong essential oil had the best effect. In addition, the skin lesions of mice with atopic dermatitis were accompanied by severe itching, which was manifested as scratching the skin lesions constantly. Chuanxiong essential oil or Chuanxiong dew can significantly reduce the number of scratching of mice, especially the high-dose group of Chuanxiong essential oil and Chuanxiong dew group. The above results show that Chuanxiong essential oil and Chuanxiong dew can relieve skin lesions and itching caused by atopic dermatitis.

[0138] Table 11 Skin condition scores and scratching times of mice in each group

[0139] Grouping Skin score Number of scratches Blank group / 9.0±3.4 Model Group 4.6±0.7 <![CDATA[147.0±17.4** ## ]]> Chuanxiong L group <![CDATA[2.1±0.7 ## ]]> <![CDATA[60.0±12.0** ## ]]> Chuanxiong M group <![CDATA[1.5±0.5 ## ]]> <![CDATA[46.7±12.9** ## ]]> Chuanxiong H group <![CDATA[0.8±0.8 ## ]]> <![CDATA[23.1±8.3 ## ]]> Chuanxiong Dew Group <![CDATA[1.4±0.5 ## ]]> <![CDATA[29.8±9.3 ## ]]>

[0140] Note: Vs blank group, **p<0.01; Vs model group, ##p<0.01.

Claims

1. A method for drying Rhizoma Chuanxiong medicinal materials, characterized in that: The method adopts a microwave vacuum drying method to dry fresh Chuanxiong.

2. The method for drying the Rhizoma Chuanxiong medicinal material according to claim 1, characterized in that: The method comprises the following steps: taking fresh chuanxiong, removing impurities and non-medicinal parts, quickly rinsing, placing in a cool and ventilated place, drying in the shade, slicing, microwave vacuum drying at 50 DEG C for 2-3 hours, and sieving out debris to obtain the product.

3. The method for drying the Rhizoma Chuanxiong medicinal materials according to claim 2, characterized in that: The slices have a diameter of 2-7 cm and a thickness of 2-6 mm; the drying time is 2 hours.

4. Use of Chuanxiong or its extract in the preparation of external medicines for treating atopic dermatitis.

5. The use according to claim 4, characterized in that: The medicine is a medicine with antipruritic effect.

6. The use according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that: The chuanxiong extract is chuanxiong essential oil or chuanxiong dew.

7. The use according to claim 6, characterized in that: The Chuanxiong dew is a byproduct obtained by drying fresh Chuanxiong according to the Chuanxiong medicinal material drying method described in any one of claims 1 to 3 and passing through a condensation device.

8. The use according to any one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that: The external medicine preparation is: gel, paste, emulsion, ointment, spray, aerosol, lotion, rinse, liniment, paint, film coating.

Images