Effects of ultrafine grinding on the physicochemical properties and efficacy in relieving cough and resolving phlegm of Fritillaria taipaiensis P. Y. Li

Fritillaria taipaiensis P. Y. Li (F. taipaiensis) is widely utilized for its efficacy in alleviating cough symptoms and reducing mucus production. Its popularity stems from its recognized therapeutic properties and associated health benefits. However, due to the scarcity of its resources and the high market valuation, the traditional application of Fritillaria taipaiensis faces the disadvantage of underutilization. To better utilize the resources of Fritillariae cirrhosae (F. cirrhosae), we prepared an ultrafine powder of F. taipaiensis (UPF) and explored the differences in physicochemical properties and pharmacodynamics between it and the traditional powder of F. taipaiensis (TPF). Physicochemical properties were characterized by particle size, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Pharmacodynamic effects were evaluated by cough and phenol red excretion modeling. Relative to TPF, UPF demonstrated superior physicochemical properties, and there was an increase in the dissolution of total alkaloid. Additionally, the effective dose of UPF required to achieve equivalent effects on cough latency prolongation, cough reduction, phenol red excretion enhancement, and the decrease of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels was half that of TPF. The UPF reduced the expression of the neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R), transient receptor potential ankyrin1 (TRPA1), surfactant protein A (SP-A) and mucin 5AC (MUC5AC) in the lung tissues. The UPF is superior to TPF in physicochemical properties and cough-relieving and phlegm-reducing effects.The research contributes to the optimization of the daily health consumption of F. taipaiensis and the promotion of the adequate utilization of its resources.