Objective: To study the effect of Yaobitong capsule(YBT)on inflammatory cytokines and pain in the rat lumbar disc herniation model (RLDHM). Method: The model of lumbar disc herniation(LDH) was established by compressing silica gel pieces on the L5 nerve root of rat. All the rats were randomized into model group

positive group(Yaotongning capsules

0.16 g·kg-1)and YBT treatment groups(0.17

0.34

0.68 g·kg-1). After administration for 30 d

the mechanical pain thresholds of left hind limb

serum tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)

interleukin-1β(IL-1β)

interleukin-6(IL-6)levels and pathological change in the nerve root of rats were detected respectively. Result: The model of LDH in rats was successfully established. Compared with normal control group

the mechanical pain thresholds of the model rats were decreased significantly(P<0.05)

the serum TNF-α

IL-1β

IL-6 levels were increased significantly(P<0.01)

and the obvious lesion was observed in nerve root. In the 0.34

0.68 g·kg-1 dose of YBT groups

the mechanical pain thresholds were increased significantly

the serum TNF-α

IL-1β

IL-6 levels reduced significantly(P<0.05

P<0.01)

and the pathological change was improved obviously in the nerve root. Conclusion: YBT could improve the symptoms and nerve root lesions in rats with LDH

which may be related with inhibition of inflammatory cytokines.