The roots of Nardostachys jatamansi inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced endotoxin shock.

Nardostachys jatamansi (NJ) has been used in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. However, it is not clear how NJ produces anti-inflammatory effects. In the present study, using an experimental model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxin shock, the protective effects and mechanisms of action of NJ were investigated. The water extract of roots of NJ was administrated to mice orally (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg) 1 h after or before LPS challenge. The administration of NJ inhibited LPS-induced endotoxin shock and the production of inflammatory mediators, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and interferon (IFN)-α/β. Murine peritoneal macrophages were used to determine the production of inflammatory mediators. In peritoneal macrophages, NJ also inhibited LPS-induced production of inflammatory mediators, such as IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-α/β. In addition, NJ reduced the activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and the level of expression of interferon regulatory factor (IRF)-1 and IRF-7 mRNA. Furthermore, post-treatment with NJ reduced LPS-induced endotoxin shock and the production of inflammatory mediators. These results suggest that NJ inhibits endotoxin shock by inhibiting the production of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-α/β through the inhibition of MAPKs activation and IRF induction.