Induction of HO-1 through p38 MAPK/Nrf2 signaling pathway by ethanol extract of Inula helenium L. reduces inflammation in LPS-activated RAW 264.7 cells and CLP-induced septic mice

► Heme oxygenase-1 negatively regulated high mobility group box 1 in inflammation. ► Demonstration of a role for p38 MAPK/Nrf2 signal for induction of heme oxygenase-1. ► Inula helenium L. maybe useful for treatment of sepsis..