Effect of Avène spring water on the activation of rat mast cell by substance P or antigen.

The biological activity of Avene water from two different springs ('Sainte Odile' and 'Val d'Orb') was studied in vitro on rat peritoneal mast cell activation. A dilution-dependent inhibition of both histamine and prostaglandin D-2 antigen-induced release was observed when cells were preincubated with both Avene spring waters. They also inhibited histamine release triggered by substance P, The ability of Avene water to inhibit mast cell activation in vitro may be related with its antiallergic and anti-inflammatory properties and its use in hydrotherapy.