Treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis using Shi-Bi-Lin, a Chinese herbal formula

Aim of the studyShi-Bi-Lin (SBL) is modified from the classic formula Cang-Er-Zi-San which has been used to treat chronic rhinitis, paranasal sinusitis and allergic rhinitis by herbal practitioners. The present study aimed at patients with moderate to severe perennial allergic rhinitis. SBL which has been shown effective in treating a guinea-pig model of allergic rhinitis, was evaluated for its efficacy and safety.Materials and methods126 allergic rhinitis patients were recruited in a double-blind randomized control trial. Half of the patients received SBL capsules and the others half received placebo for 4 weeks. Symptoms scores, physician's evaluation, nose examination, quality of life, adverse effects, serum cytokines were evaluated before and after treatment.ResultsSBL was found to be safe and effective in relieving some symptoms of perennial allergic rhinitis, improving the nose condition, and enhancing some domains of quality of life when compare to placebo, (p < 0.05). In the 2 weeks follow up after treatment completion, the SBL enjoyed a prolongation of symptom control (p = 0.05).ConclusionSBL relieved symptoms of nose blockage among patients with perennial allergic rhinitis, and some aspects of the quality of life were also improved. The improvement was sustained for at least 2 weeks after treatment. No serious adverse events were encountered.