Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of aqueous extract of Centipeda minima

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Centipeda minima (L.) is traditionally used in Chinese folk medicine for the treatments of rhinitis, sinusitis, relieving pain, reducing swelling, and treating cancer for a long history in Taiwan. However, there is no scientific evidence which supports the use in the literature.

Aim of the study

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the aqueous extract of Centipeda minima (ACM).

Materials and methods

The following activities were investigated: antioxidant activities [2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl)], and anti-inflammatory [lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 macrophages and paw-edema induced by λ-carrageenan (Carr)]. We also investigated the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ACM via studies of the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the edema paw. Serum NO, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were also measured in vivo. In HPLC analysis, the fingerprint chromatogram of ACM was established.

Results

ACM showed the highest TEAC and DPPH radical scavenging activities, respectively. ACM also had highest contents of polyphenol and flavonoid contents. We evaluated that ACM and the reference compound of protocatechualdehyde and caffeic acid decreased the LPS-induced NO production in RAW264.7 cells. Administration of ACM showed a concentration dependent inhibition on paw edema development after Carr treatment in mice. The anti-inflammatory effects of ACM could be via NO, TNF-α, and IL-1β suppressions and associated with the increase in the activities of antioxidant enzymes. Western blotting revealed that ACM decreased Carr-induced inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expressions.

Conclusions

Anti-inflammatory mechanisms of ACM might be correlated to the decrease in the level of Malondialdehyde (MDA), iNOS, and COX-2 via increasing the activities of CAT, SOD, and GPx in the edema paw. Overall, the results showed that ACM demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, which supports previous claims of the traditional use for inflammation and pain.     

Appraisal of antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory potential of extract and fractions from the leaves of Torreya grandis Fort Ex. Lindl

Torreya grandis (Taxaceae) was studied for antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects. Leaves were extracted with 80% ethanol at 80 °C for 3 h and fractionated with petroleum ether, chloroform, ethylacetate and n-butanol. The aqueous ethanolic extract (aq.EE), ethylacetate fraction (EaF) and butanol fraction (BtF) at the doses of (100 and 200 mg/kg, i.g.) body weight were used for study. Evaluation of antinociceptive activity was carried out by acetic acid-induced writhing response and formalin-induced paw licking time in the first and second phases of mice. The paw edema induced by formalin- and xylene-induced ear edema were used to assess anti-inflammatory activity. It was found that Torreya grandis extract and fractions at the doses of (100 and 200 mg/kg, i.g.) were significantly attenuated the writhing responses induced by acetic acid and second phase of pain response induced by subplantar injection of formalin in mice. In addition, these extract and fractions inhibiting the formaldehyde-induced arthritis as well as xylene-induces edema prolifically. From acute oral toxicity studies no mortality was pragmatic even at highest dose (2500 mg/kg, i.g.). Furthermore, our phytochemical studies indicated that the aq. ethanolic extract of leaves contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids and saponins. The results provide justification for the folkloric uses of Torreya grandis in the treatment of analgesic and inflammatory-based diseases across the China.     

Antioxidant,free radical scavenging,anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective potential of the extract from Parathelypteris nipponica (Franch. et Sav.) Ching

Aim of the study

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant, free radical scavenging, hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory potential of Parathelypteris nipponica (Franch. et Sav.) Ching.

Methods and results

Antioxidant activity of the methanolic extract of Parathelypteris nipponica (Franch. et Sav.) Ching (TMPN) was studied using in vitro and in vivo models, total flavonoids content in TMPN was found to be 262 ± 5.6 mg/g (w/w). The TMPN exhibited strong antioxidant activity with EC₅₀ values in reductive ability (0.18 ± 0.02 mg/ml) and ferric thiocyanate (FTC) assay (0.10 ± 0.01 mg/ml), strong free radical scavenging activity as evidenced by the low EC₅₀ values in DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) (2.00 ± 0.02 mg/ml), superoxide anion (0.60 ± 0.05 mg/ml), OH radicals (0.26 ± 0.03 mg/ml), and hydrogen peroxide (0.45 ± 0.03 mg/ml) methods. Acute toxicity study revealed that the LD₅₀ value of the extract was more than the dose 2000 mg/kg bodyweight of mice. Hepatoprotective activity of TMPN was determined by the carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced oxidative tissue injury in rat liver, the extract showed significant hepatoprotective activity that was evident by enzymatic examination and histopathological study. In assessing anti-inflammatory activity the carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema test was used, the extract reduced carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema in dose-dependent manner, achieving high degree of anti-inflammatory activity.

Conclusion

This study provides a scientific basis for the ethnomedical claims that Parathelypteris nipponica (Franch. et Sav.) Ching is effective against inflammation and liver injury.     

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Bowdichia virgilioides (sucupira)

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Bowdichia virgilioides Kunth (Leguminosae Papilonoideae) is a plant with anti-inflammatory activity used in folk medicine. The importance of this plant promoted its inclusion in Brazilian Pharmacopoeia.

Aim of the study

In order to evaluate the actions of this plant, studies were performed on antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities.

Materials and methods

The aqueous extracts (AE) of Bowdichia virgilioides inner bark and leaves were used at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. Antinociceptive activity of plant extract was evaluated by writhing, hot-plate and formalin tests. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using paw oedema and peritonitis methods.

Results

Oral treatment with the AE of inner bark or leaves elicited inhibitory activity (P < 0.01) on acetic acid effect at 200 and 400 mg/kg, and reduced the formalin effect at the second-phase (200 and 400 mg/kg, P < 0.01), however it did not elicit any inhibitory effect on hot-plate test. The indomethacin inhibited the acetic acid-induced writhing and the formalin effect at the second-phase (P < 0.001), and the morphine reduced the both phases of formalin test (P < 0.001). Carrageenan-induced oedema formation and neutrophil migration into the peritoneal cavity were reduced with the AE of inner bark or leaves at 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg (P < 0.05), and by the reference compounds aspirin (P < 0.001) and dexamethasone (P < 0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

The AE of Bowdichia virgilioides shows antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, supporting the folkloric usage of the plant to treat various inflammatory diseases.     

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory potential of Chloranthus erectus (Buch.-Ham.) Verd. leaf extract in rats

Aim of the study

Chloranthus erectus (Buch.-Ham.) Verdcourt (Chloranthaceae) is a shrub native to tropical and temperate zone of Eastern Himalaya of India and South-East Asia and have traditionally been used as a folklore medicine to treat localised swelling, joint pain, skin inflammation, fever and bodyache. In this study, an attempt has been made to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory activity of methanol extract obtained from Chloranthus erectus leaves (MECEL) in acute, sub-acute and chronic mouse models.

Materials and methods

Inflammation in the hind paw of Wistar albino rat was induced by carrageenan, histamine and serotonin, and tissue granuloma pouch was induced by cotton pellet method. Anti-inflammatory drug—phenylbutazone was used as standard drug for comparison.

Results

In acute carrageenan-induced rat hind paw edema, oral administration of MECEL at 200 mg/kg produced significant inhibition of edema by 38.34% (p < 0.01) while the histamine- and serotonin-induced sub-acute model, the inhibition of paw edema reached 52.54% (p < 0.001) and 25.5% (p < 0.01), respectively. In a 7-day study, MECEL at 20 and 50 mg/kg produced significant suppression of cotton pellet-induced tissue granuloma formation in rats.

Conclusions

This preliminary study revealed that the methanol extract of Chloranthus erectus exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in the tested models, and may provide the scientific rationale for its popular folk medicine as anti-inflammatory agent.     

Anti-secretory,anti-inflammatory and anti-Helicobacter pylori activities of several fractions isolated from Piper carpunya Ruiz & Pav.

Ethnopharmacological relevance

The leaves of Piper carpunya Ruiz & Pav. (syn Piper lenticellosum C.D.C.) (Piperaceae), are widely used in folk medicine in tropical and subtropical countries of South America as an anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, anti-diarrheal and anti-parasitical remedy as well as an ailment for skin irritations.

Aims of the study

To study the anti-inflammatory, anti-secretory and anti-Helicobacter pylori activities of different fractions isolated from an ethanolic extract of the leaves of Piper carpunya, in order to provide evidence for the use of this plant as an anti-ulcer remedy. Moreover, to isolate the main compounds of the extract and relate their biological activity to the experimental results obtained with the fractions.

Materials and methods

Sixteen fractions were obtained from the ethanolic extract (F I–XVI) and 16 pure compounds were isolated and identified from these fractions. We studied the effects of the fractions (0.1–400 μg/mL) on the release of myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme from rat peritoneal leukocytes, on rabbit gastric microsomal H⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity and anti-Helicobacter pylori anti-microbial activity using the microdilution method (MM). The main compounds contained in the fractions were isolated and identified by ¹H- and ¹³C NMR spectra analysis and comparison with the literature data.

Results

Eight fractions showed inhibition of MPO enzyme (F I–IV, X, XII, XIV and XV). The highest inhibition was observed with F XIV (50 μg/mL, 60.9%, p < 0.001). F X and XII were the most active ones, inhibiting the gastric H⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity with IC₅₀ values equal to 22.3 μg/mL and 28.1 μg/mL, respectively. All fractions, except F XV, presented detectable anti-Helicobacter pylori activity, with a diameter of inhibition zones ranging from 11 mm up to 50 mm. The best anti-Helicobacter pylori activity was obtained with F III and V. Both fractions killed Helicobacter pylori with lowest concentration values, about 6.25 μg/mL. Sixteen pure compounds were isolated, five of them are flavonoids that possess strong anti-oxidant and free radical scavenging activity, e.g. vitexin, isovitexin, and rhamnopyranosylvitexin. Terpenoids like sitosterol, stigmasterol and phytol, which have shown gastroprotective activity, and dihydrochalcones, like asebogenin, with anti-bacterial activity, were also isolated. Furthermore, the rare neolignan 1, that is a DNA polymerase β lyase inhibitor, and (6S, 9S)-roseoside, that shows strong anti-bacterial activity, were isolated, for the first time, from the genus Piper.

Conclusions

We suggest that the flavonoids isolated from F I and II (vitexin, isovitexin, rhamnopyranosylvitexin and isoembigenin) contribute to the anti-MPO activity, as well as to their anti-Helicobacter pylori activity. These flavonoids may also be responsible for the important inhibition of H⁺, K⁺-ATPase activity. Also the phytosterols and phytol obtained from F XIV and XV could be involved in these gastroprotective activities. These results encourage us to continue phytochemical studies on these fractions in order to obtain full scientific validation for this species.     

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the phenolic extracts of Sapium sebiferum (L.) Roxb. leaves

Ethnopharmacological relevance

The leaves of Sapium sebiferum have long been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for the treatment of eczema, shingles, edema, swelling, ascites, scabs, and snakebites, among other maladies.

Aim of this study

The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the phenolic extracts of Sapium sebiferum leaves using in vitro and in vivo models.

Materials and methods

The in vitro antioxidant activities of the extracts were measured using common chemical methods (total phenolic content; total flavonoid content; scavenging of DPPH·, ABTS+·, superoxide, and nitrite radicals; reducing power; β-carotene bleaching; and FTC assays). The in vivo topical anti-inflammatory activities were tested using the 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced dermatitis animal model. The SOD and CAT activities and the GSH content of ear tissue were also determined using test kits.

Results

The extracts of Sapium sebiferum leaves exhibited strong in vitro antioxidant activities. They also showed significant (P<0.001) and dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activities in an acute dermatitis model at the doses of 0.03 mg/ear, 0.1 mg/ear, and 0.3 mg/ear. The application of Sapium sebiferum leaf extracts increased the SOD and CAT activities and the GSH content relative to those of the TPA treatment group. The anti-inflammatory effect of the Sapium sebiferum leaf extract was positively correlated with its antioxidant activity.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that Sapium sebiferum leaf extract is an effective anti-inflammatory agent in the TPA-induced dermatitis model, and its anti-inflammatory effect is related, at least in part, to its antioxidant activity.     

The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Piptadenia stipulacea Benth. (Fabaceae)

Aim

In this study, we attempted to identify the possible antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory actions of the aqueous phase, the ethyl acetate phase and one unknown flavonoid obtained from aerial parts of Piptadenia stipulacea, known in Brazil as “jurema-branca”, “carcará” and “rasga-beiço”.

Materials and methods

Aerial parts of Piptadenia stipulacea were used and after fractionation, the flavonoid FGAL was obtained. Experiments were conducted on Swiss mice using the acetic acid-induced writhing test, the hot plate test, the formalin-induced pain test and zymosan A-induced peritonitis test.

Results

The aqueous and ethyl acetate phases (p.o., 100 mg/kg); and the flavonoid FGAL (p.o. and i.p. at 100 μmol/kg), reduced the nociception produced by acetic acid, by 49.92%, 54.62%, 38.97% and 64.79%, respectively. In vivo inhibition of nociception by the ethyl acetate phase (100 mg/kg, p.o.) in the hot plate test was favorable, indicating that this fraction exhibited central activity. The ethyl acetate phase (100 mg/kg, p.o.) reduced the formalin effects in both phases by 28.51% and 55.72%, respectively. Treatment with the aqueous phase (100 mg/kg, p.o.) and FGAL (100 μmol/kg, i.p.) only protected the second phase by 69.76% and 68.78%, respectively. In addition, it was observed in the zymosan A-induced peritonitis test that the aqueous phase, the ethyl acetate phase and the FGAL exhibited anti-inflammatory activity, reducing significantly the number of recruit cells by 35.84%, 37.70% and FGAL (1), respectively.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that the FGAL elicits pronounced antinociceptive activity against several pain models. The actions of this flavonoid probably are due to antioxidative properties. However, pharmacological and chemical studies are continuing in order to characterize the mechanism(s) responsible for this antinociceptive action and also to identify other active substances present in Piptadenia stipulacea.     

Anti-inflammatory activity of ethanol extract and fractions from Couroupita guianensis Aublet leaves

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Couroupita guianensis Aublet, ‘macacarecuia’, ‘abricó-de-macaco’, ‘castanha-de-macaco’ and ‘amêndoa-dos-andes’, is found in tropical regions and is widely used in the treatment of tumors, pain, and inflammatory processes.

Aim of the study

Ethanol extract and hexane and ethyl acetate fractions were evaluated in models of inflammatory pain (formalin-induced licking) and acute inflammation (carrageenan-induced peritonitis).

Materials and methods

Ethanol extract, hexane and ethyl acetate fractions (10, 30 or 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and the reference drugs dexamethasone (5 mg/kg), morphine (5 mg/kg, s.c.), and acetylsalicylic acid (100 mg/kg, p.o.) were tested in formalin-induced licking response and carrageenan-induced peritonitis.

Results

All three doses from Couroupita guianensis fractions significantly reduced the time that the animal spent licking the formalin-injected paw in first and second phases. However, only higher doses (30 and 100 mg/kg) were able to inhibit the leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity after carrageenan injection. In this model, the 100 mg/kg dose almost abolished the cell migration. It was also observed that protein concentration resulted from extravasation to the peritoneum and nitric oxide (NO) productions were significantly reduced. Cytokines production was differently affected by the treatment. TNF-α production was reduced after ethanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction pre-treatment whereas hexane fraction had effect only with 100 mg/kg dose. IL-1β production was inhibited only after hexane fraction pre-treatment. The inhibitory effect observed was not due to a direct cytotoxic effect on cells nor to a NO-scavenger activity. The effect was due to a direct inhibition on NO production by the cells.

Conclusions

The results show that Couroupita guianensis fractions have anti-inflammatory effect, partly due to a reduction on cell migration and a inhibition on cytokines and inflammatory mediators production.     

In vivo anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the aqueous extract of the leaves of Piper sarmentosum

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Piper sarmentosum (Piperaceae) is a medicinal plant traditionally used by the Malays to treat headaches, toothaches, coughs, asthma and fever.

Aim of the study

In order to establish the pharmacological properties of the leaf of this plant, studies were performed on anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities.

Materials and methods

The aqueous extract of Piper sarmentosum (AEPS) was prepared in the doses of 30, 100 and 300 mg/kg. Anti-nociceptive activity of AEPS was evaluated by abdominal constriction and hot-plate tests. AEPS was also pre-challenged with 5 mg/kg naloxone to determine the involvement of opioid receptors. Anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan-induced paw edema assay.

Results

Subcutaneous administration of AEPS exhibited anti-nociceptive activity (P < 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner in the abdominal constriction and hot-plate tests. Pre-treatment with naloxone completely (P < 0.05) diminished the extract anti-nociceptive activity in both tests. The AEPS, at all doses used, exerted significant (P < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusions

The AEPS exhibits opioid-mediated anti-nociceptive activity at the peripheral and central levels, as well as anti-inflammatory activity, which confirmed the traditional uses of the plant in the treatment of pain- and inflammatory-related ailments.     

Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg. Leaves extract

AIM OF THE STUDY: The analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanol extract of Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg. Leaves were observed in various experimental models related to nociception and inflammation, so as to provide some evidence for its traditional use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Acetic acid-induced writhing and a hot plate test in mice were used to evaluate its analgesic activity. On the other hand, its anti-inflammatory activity was observed in xylene or carrageenan-induced edema, carboxymethylcellulose sodium (CMC-Na)-induced leukocyte migration in mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) release from mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. RESULTS: The ethanol extract significantly inhibited acetic acid-induced writhing after single oral administration at doses of 424 and 848 mg extract/kg, and the response to the thermal stimulus in mice at the dose of 848 mg/kg. Meanwhile, the ethanol extract also remarkably lessened xylene-induced ear swelling, carrageenan-induced paw edema, and CMC-Na-induced leukocyte migration. Furthermore, the extract considerably reduced NO release from LPS-stimulated macrophages with IC50 of 80.4 mg/ml. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that Aquilaria sinensis (Lour.) Gilg. Leaves extract present notable analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, which support its folkloric use for some diseases related with painful and inflammatory conditions such as trauma etc.     

Characterization of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of fractions obtained from Copaifera multijuga Hayne

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Copaifera multijuga Hayne (Leguminosae) is a tree that produces an oleoresin, which is extensively commercialized in Brazil as capsules or crude oil for the treatment of several disorders. Ethnopharmacological studies show a diversity of indications such as anti-inflammatory and epidermal wound cicatrization.

Aim of the study

In the present work three fractions obtained from Copaifera multijuga oleoresin (hexane (HF), chloroform (CF), and methanol (MF) from a KOH impregnated silica gel column chromatography, representing the three main classes of compounds in the Copaifera genus (hydrocarbon sesquiterpenes, oxygenated sesquiterpenes and acidic diterpenes), were evaluated using antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory models.

Materials and methods

HF, CF, and MF (doses ranging between 1 and 150 mg/kg, depending on the model used), Copaifera multijuga oleoresin (CMO, 100 mg/kg, p.o.) and the reference drug morphine (5 mg/kg, p.o.) were evaluated using models for analgesia (acetic acid-induced contortions and tail flick) or inflammation (rat paw oedema and increase in vascular permeability). To elucidate the mechanism of action from the fractions, animals were pre-treated with naloxone (opioid receptor antagonist, 5 mg/kg, i.p.).

Results

Fractions significantly inhibited (in a concentration-dependant way) the number of contortions induced by acetic acid and the second phase of formalin-induced licking response. Similar results were observed in the tail flick model. The central antinociceptive effect for HF and CF at the doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg was higher than the one observed for morphine (1 mg/kg). Administration of naloxone inhibited the antinociceptive effect of fractions indicating that HF, CF, and MF may be acting on opioid receptors. All three fractions also inhibited rat paw oedema and the increase in vascular permeability induced by several phlogistic agents (carrageenan, histamine, and serotonin).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that fractions obtained from Copaifera multijuga Hayne demonstrate an antinociceptive effect probably mediated by opioid receptors, and anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of histaminergic and serotoninergic pathways.     

Analgesic and antimalarial activities of crude leaf extract and fractions of Acalypha wilkensiana

Aim of the study

Antiplasmodial and analgesic activities of leaf extract and fractions of Acalypha wilkensiana were evaluated to ascertain the folkloric claim of its antimalarial and analgesic activities.

Materials and methods

The crude leaf extract (220–659 mg/kg) and fractions (chloroform and aqueous; 440 mg/kg) of Acalypha wilkensiana were investigated for antiplasmodial activity against chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei infections in mice and for analgesic activity against chemical and heat-induced pains. The antiplasmodial activity during early and established infections as well as prophylactic activity were investigated. Chloroquine (5 mg/kg) and pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg) were used as positive controls. Thin films made from tail blood of each mouse were used to assess the level of parasitaemia of the mice. Analgesic activity of the crude extract was also evaluated against acetic acid, formalin and heat-induced pains.

Results

The extract and its fractions dose-dependently reduced parasitaemia induced by chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei infection in prophylactic, suppressive and curative models in mice. These reductions were statistically significant (p < 0.001). They also improved the mean survival time (MST) from 16 to 22 days relative to control (p < 0.01–0.001). The activities of extract/fractions were incomparable to that of the standard drugs used (chloroquine and pyrimethamine). On chemically and thermally induced pains, the extract inhibited acetic acid and formalin-induced inflammation as well as hot plate-induced pain in mice. These inhibitions were statistically significant (p < 0.001) and in a dose-dependent fashion.

Conclusion

The antiparasitaemic and analgesic effects may in part be mediated through the chemical constituents of the plant.     

基于NaCl重吸收抑制作用的石韦利尿活性成分筛选

目的 建立基于抑制NaCl重吸收作用的利尿药物体外筛选模型,研究21个从石韦中分离的化合物的利尿活性,并通过体内实验进行验证.方法 采用犬肾小管上皮细胞MDCK对石韦中21个化合物进行体外利尿活性筛选,确定NaCl体外转运实验的最佳NaCl剂量;将MDCK细胞接种于Transwell小室内,设置对照组、石韦化合物(10...     

Antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties of the ethanolic extract,dichloromethane fraction and costunolide from Magnolia ovata (Magnoliaceae)

Aim of the study

Magnolia ovata (A.St.-Hil.) Spreng (formerly Talauma ovata), known as “pinha-do-brejo” or “baguaçu”, is a large tree widely distributed in Brazil. Its trunk bark has been used in folk medicine against fever. However, no data have been published to support the antipyretic ethnopharmacological use. This study investigated the antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanolic extract (EEMO), dichloromethane fraction (DCM), and the isolated compound costunolide.

Materials and methods

The antipyretic and anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated in experimental models of fever and inflammation in mice.

Results

The oral administration of EEMO, DCM and costunolide inhibited carrageenan (Cg)-induced paw oedema (ID₅₀ 72.35 (38.64–135.46) mg/kg, 5.8 (2.41–14.04) mg/kg and 0.18 (0.12–0.27) mg/kg, respectively) and was effective in abolishing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced fever (30 mg/kg, 4.5 mg/kg and 0.15 mg/kg, respectively). EEMO was also effective in reducing cell migration in the pleurisy model. Intraplantar injection of costunolide also reduced the paw oedema, myeloperoxidase and N-acetyl-glucosaminidase activity induced by Cg in mice.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results show, for the first time, that extracts obtained from Magnolia ovata possess antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties, and costunolide appears to be the compound responsible for these effects.     

Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities of the ethanol extract from Cynoglossum lanceolatum

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forsk. (Boraginaceae) has been used in folk medicine in china to treat acute nephritis, periodontitis, acute submandibular lymphadenitis, snake bite, etc. However, there have been no scientific reports in the modern literature on the diuretic, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of this plant. The objective of this study is to evaluate the above activities of the Cynoglossum lanceolatum extract (CLE) in animals.

Materials and methods

The diuretic effect of CLE was assessed in rats and rabbits. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using fresh egg white-induced paw edema in rats, carrageenan-elicited paw edema in adrenalectomized rats, and dimethylbenzene-induced inflammation in mice. The analgesic action was estimated in mice using the acetic acid-induced writhing test and the hot-plate test. In addition, the acute oral toxicity of CLE was studied in mice.

Results

CLE strikingly and dose-dependently increased urine output of rats and rabbits, suppressed fresh egg white-induced paw edema in rats and carrageenan-elicited paw edema in adrenalectomized rats, reduced dimethylbenzene-induced ear edema in mice, inhibited the writhing response in mice, but did not increased reaction time of mice in the hot-plate test. No death of mice was observed when orally administered CLE up to 12 g/kg.

Conclusions

These findings propose that CLE has evident diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and non-central analgesic activities. Furthermore the anti-inflammatory action does not rely on endogenetic glucocorticoids regulated by hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis. On the other hand, CLE also shows a favorable safety.     

Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the ethanolic extract of Bougainvillea xbuttiana

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Bougainvillea xbuttiana is widely distributed in Mexico and it is used as an analgesic in folk medicine.

Aim of the study

In the present study the in vivo antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the Bougainvillea xbuttiana ethanolic extract have been studied in mice.

Materials and methods

The phytochemical analysis was performed. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated through writhing and formalin test in mice. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined with the carrageenan-induced mice paw oedema model. IL-6, IL-10 and IFN-γ levels were determined by enzyme-like immunosorbent assay, whereas TNF and nitrite levels were detected by standard assay with L929 cells and colorimetric Griess reactive, respectively.

Results

The results showed that the ethanolic extract of the Bougainvillea xbuttiana has significant anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities, by inhibition of nociception induced by acetic acid and paw oedema. This extract also induced a decrease in TNF levels and an increase of IL-6, IFN-γ and NO levels that we observed up to 2 h. The highest levels of IL-10 were observed up to 4 h. The ratios of pro-/anti-inflammatory cytokines in sera from mice injected with the ethanolic extract, may be manifesting an anti-inflammatory status.

Conclusions

The present study provides convincing evidences that Bougainvillea xbuttiana extract possesses significant anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects.     

Antibacterial and antifungal activity of Flindersine isolated from the traditional medicinal plant, Toddalia asiatica (L.) Lam.

Aim of the study

The leaves and root of Toddalia asiatica (L.) Lam. (Rutaceae) are widely used as a folk medicine in India. Hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, methanol and water extracts of Toddalia asiatica leaves and isolated compound Flindersine were tested against bacteria and fungi.

Materials and methods

Antibacterial and antifungal activities were tested against bacteria and fungi using disc-diffusion method and minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). The compound was confirmed using X-ray crystallography technique.

Results

Antibacterial and antifungal activities were observed in ethyl acetate extract. One active principle Flindersine (2,6-dihydro-2,2-dimethyl-5H-pyrano [3,2-c] quinoline-5-one-9cl) was isolated from the ethyl acetate extract. The MIC values of the compound against bacteria Bacillus subtilis (31.25 μg/ml), Staphylococcus aureus (62.5 μg/ml), Staphylococcus epidermidis (62.5 μg/ml), Enterococcus faecalis (31.25 μg/ml), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (250 μg/ml), Acinetobacter baumannii (125 μg/ml) and fungi Trichophyton rubrum 57 (62.5 μg/ml), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (62.5 μg/ml), Trichophyton simii (62.5 μg/ml), Epidermophyton floccosum (62.5 μg/ml), Magnaporthe grisea (250 μg/ml) and Candida albicans (250 μg/ml) were determined.

Conclusions

Ethyl acetate extract showed promising antibacterial and antifungal activity and isolated compound Flindersine showed moderate activity against bacteria and fungi.     

Screening of analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of Citrullus colocynthis from southern Tunisia

Ethnopharmacological relevance

Inflammations and immune-related diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis are growing global concerns. Most of the drugs from plants which have become important in modern medicine had a folklore origin and are traditional in systems of medicine. Citrullus colocynthis Schrad. (cucurbitaceae), endemic in Southern Tunisia, is used in folk medicine to treat many inflammation diseases.

Aim of study

To evaluate the acute toxicity of different parts of Citrullus colocynthis and then to screen the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of aqueous extracts from roots and stems of the plant and from fruits and seeds at different maturation stages.

Materials and methods

After identification and acute toxicity assay Citrullus colocynthis Schrad. aqueous extracts were screened for analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities using, respectively, the acetic acid writhing test in mice and the carrageenan-induced paw edema assay in rats.

Results

All extracts displayed analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities at different doses without inducing acute toxicity. Topic results were obtained with immature fruits followed by seeds. The stem and root extracts were shown to possess the less significant inhibitory activity against analgesic and anti-inflammatory models.

Conclusions

Based on this study, we confirmed that Citrullus colocynthis Schrad. is a potentially useful drug suitable for further evaluation for rheumatoid arthritis, and its folk medicinal use as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents is validated.     

In vivo evaluation of the anti-asthmatic,antitussive and expectorant activities of extract and fractions from Elaeagnus pungens leaf

The leaf of Elaeagnus pungens thunb. (Family Elaeagnaceae) has been documented as an effective herb for the treatment of asthma and chronic bronchitis in traditional Chinese medicine. This study was aimed at evaluating the anti-asthmatic, antitussive and expectorant activities in vivo of the ethanolic extract and fractions from the leaf of Elaeagnus pungens. The results showed that the 70% ethanolic extract increased the preconvulsive time of asthma induced by the combination of histamine and acetylcholine chloride in guinea pigs at the medium dose of 1.379 g/kg. The water fraction significantly prolonged the preconvulsive time (P < 0.05) in guinea pigs, lengthened the latent period of cough (P < 0.05) as well as decreased the cough frequency caused by citric acid in guinea pigs (P < 0.01) and enhanced tracheal phenol red output in mice (P < 0.01). Moreover, the petroleum ether fraction significantly reduced the cough frequency induced in guinea pigs (P < 0.01) and improved tracheal phenol red output in mice (P < 0.01). It indicated that the petroleum ether fraction and the water fraction of Elaeagnus pungens leaf were effective on anti-asthmatic, antitussive and expectorant activities, which supplied for further research on chemical constituents and pharmacological mechanisms.