Evaluation of a four-herb Chinese medicine formula at different concentrations on muscle damage and inflammation in a rat model of DOMS

Abstract: Background: Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) impairs exercise recovery, while current treatments remain limited. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formulas may provide safe, multi-target interventions. Objectives: This study evaluated the dose-dependent protective effects of a four-herb Chinese medicine formulation (safflower, Chinese Angelica, peach kernel and myrrh) against DOMS in a rat model. Methods: Thirty-two male SPF SD rats were randomly allocated to control or low- (1696 mg/kg), medium- (3392 mg/kg), or high-dose (6784 mg/kg) groups. The formulation was administered orally for 11 days, with DOMS induced by exhaustive swimming on day 8. Serum CK, Mb, CRP, IL-6, and PGE₂ were measured at baseline and at 24, 48, 72, and 96 h post-exercise. Results: The medium- and high-dose groups exhibited significantly lower serum CK, Mb, CRP, IL-6, and PGE₂ levels than controls, with the high-dose group showing the largest reductions. The low-dose group showed limited or no significant reductions in most markers, demonstrating a clear dose-dependent protective effect. Conclusions: The formulation dose-dependently attenuates muscle damage and inflammation in a rat DOMS model, with high-dose treatment achieving the fastest recovery. Clinical trials are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety in humans.