Effectiveness of topical intranasal curcumin in the experimentally induced allergic rhinitis model in rats

Curcumin, a flavonoid derived from turmeric, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic effects. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of intranasal curcumin in an allergic rhinitis (AR) rat model. Forty rats were randomized into five groups: a Sham control, an AR model with no treatment (negative control), an AR model treated with intranasal mometasone furoate (positive control), and an AR model treated with intranasal curcumin. Allergic symptoms (sneezing, itching, nasal discharge) were evaluated by both unblinded and blinded observers. Serum ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE levels were measured using ELISA. Nasal mucosal histopathology (edema, cilia loss, goblet cell hyperplasia, inflammation, eosinophilia) was assessed by light microscopy. Intranasal curcumin significantly improved histopathological findings and reduced allergic symptoms, with efficacy comparable to steroid treatment. Intranasal curcumin alleviated allergic rhinitis symptoms and inflammation, suggesting a promising, low-cost alternative for AR management.