Efficacy of snakehead fish (Channa striatus ) in subjects with allergic rhinitis: a randomized controlled trial

Allergic rhinitis is a prevailing chronic infl ammatory respiratory disorder that aff ects 10–30% of the population globally. Channa striatus (Channa) is a snakehead, freshwater fi sh that has been used traditionally to enhance wound healing and relief post-operative pain. This study evaluates the effi cacy of oral Channa extract on allergic rhinitis subjects on total nasal symptom score and serum immunoglobulin E (Ig E). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted by comparing the oral Channa extract 500 mg/day and placebo among allergic rhinitis subjects for a 6-week intervention period. Subjects aged 18–50 years old, diagnosed with allergic rhinitis based on total symptoms score, naso-endoscopy fi ndings, and positive skin prick test were included in this trial. All subjects were treated with antihistamine (levocetrizine) and local corticosteroid nasal spray (fl uticasone furoate nasal spray). Laboratory-based blood tests were used as safety measures. A total of 70 subjects were randomized. Channa group showed signifi cant improvement in nasal blockage ( p < 0.05), nasal itchiness ( p < 0.05), eye itchiness ( p < 0.05) and general symptoms ( p < 0.05) compared to the placebo groups. Serum Ig E were signifi cantly lowered in Channa group compared to placebo ( p < 0.001). No signifi cant diff erences were found between the groups in terms of nasal discharge, sneezing, palate itchiness, and smell score. No serious adverse events were reported. In conclusion, Channa has a benefi cial role in improving nasal symptoms and reduction in serum Ig E in allergic rhinitis subjects. KCI Citation Count: 0