Evaluation of Analgesic Activity of the Methanol Extract from the Galls of Quercus infectoria (Olivier) in Rats

Cyperus articulatus: Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of a medicinal plant from the Amazon

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cyperus articulatus L., popularly known as priprioca, is a plant used in the Amazon for perfumed baths and homemade perfumes. In traditional medicine, its rhizomes are used to treat diseases related to inflammatory processes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Due to its promising bioactive properties, this study sought to investigate its phytochemistry and the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activity of the essential oil obtained from C. articulatus (CAEO) in in vitro and in vivo tests.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The essential oil was obtained from the rhizomes of C. articulatus and extraction was carried out via hydrodistillation. Then, the oil was analyzed by GC-MS analyses. Initially, culture of RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to evaluate cytotoxicity and interference in the production of mediators of the inflammatory process (nitrite, IL-1β, TNF-α and PGE2) after exposure to CAEO. The acute toxicity of CAEO was evaluated and the results were used to define doses of 10, 100 and 400 mg kg-1 for evaluation of CAEO in in vivo tests using mice. The carrageenan-induced air pouch models and the Evans test were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity by measuring the number of total leukocytes and vascular permeability. Antinociceptive activity was evaluated via tests of contortions induced by acetic acid, hot plate, and formalin.

RESULTS

Treatment with CAEO reduced the levels of nitrite IL-1β, TNF-α and PGE2 in the macrophage culture, revealing its anti-inflammatory potential. CAEO decreased carrageenan-induced leukocyte migration and vascular permeability, which are important events related to the acute inflammatory response. Nociceptive activity was significantly inhibited by CAEO in the acetic acid-induced contortions model, hot plate, and in both phases of the formalin test. The treatment with naloxane reversed the antinociceptive effect observed in the formalin test, suggesting the participation of opioid receptors in the mechanism of action of CAEO.

CONCLUSION

The observed results reveal the anti-inflammatory and antinocipeptive activity of C. articulatus essential oil in vivo and support the traditional use of this plant in the treatment of different diseases involving inflammation and pain.

Exploring Cheura [Diploknema Butyracea (Roxb.) H. J. Lam]: Unveiling its Ethnomedicinal Heritage, Phytochemical Composition, Pharmacological Properties, and Innovative Applications

Diploknema butyracea (Roxb) H.J Lam, also referred as "Kalpavriksha", is commonly known as Gophal, Cheura, or Indian butter tree. It is a deciduous tree with straight trunks of 15-20 m in height and white-yellow-coloured fragile flowers with fragrance, found at altitudes of 300-1500 m in the sub-Himalayan region of India, China, Nepal, and Bhutan. Diploknema have 11 taxa and 8 species, out of which 3 species are found in Uttarakhand hills, Sikkim, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam. The tree holds significant economic importance, serving various purposes within ethnic communities. Its high lipid content makes it valuable for food, medicine, construction, and the production of various value-added products. The ethno-pharmacological applications encompass treating rheumatism, burns, asthma, and various skin conditions. The plant's different components-bark, leaves, flowers, seeds, and fruits-contain a diverse array of phytoconstituents, including alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, and palmitic acid, along with essential nutrients like sodium, calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and various sugars which shows diverse pharmacological and therapeutic activities. Beyond traditional uses, Diploknema is important for diverse industrial application in pharmaceuticals, confectionery, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics. Present paper is an attempt to understand comprehensive details on different aspects of this plant to explore new avenues for various value-added products.

Unveiling the pharmacological potential of Coelogyne suaveolens: An investigation of its diverse pharmacological activities by in vivo and computational studies

The medicinal potential of Coelogyne suaveolens, a traditional medicinal plant, was investigated through in vivo and molecular docking studies. The ethyl acetate fraction of the plant's acetonic extract was subjected to various bioactivity tests to assess its analgesic, anxiolytic, and sedative effects on Swiss albino mice. Furthermore, we used GCMS to identify the bioactive chemicals in the extract's ethyl acetate fraction. The root and bulb extracts demonstrated significant analgesic activity in acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate, and tail immersion tests in a dose-dependent manner when compared to the control. Again, the extract exhibited moderate anxiolytic activity in the elevated plus maze test at a dosage of 400 mg/kg body weight, while the root extract showed significant anxiolytic activity in the hole board test at the same dosage. Significant sedative activity was observed in the hole cross, open field, and rotarod tests at a dosage of 400 mg/kg. According to molecular docking studies, the extract has the potential to serve as an analgesic medication by reducing the enzymatic activity of cyclooxygenases 1 and 2. Overall, the findings suggest that C. suaveolens has substantial therapeutic potential for the development of novel treatments for pain, anxiety, and sleep disorders.

Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic potential of Oxystelma esculentum (L. f.) Sm. using in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic potential of Oxystelma esculentum using different animal models. The phytochemical profile was determined by assessing its total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), followed by the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. The in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of O. esculentum ethanolic extract (OEE) was evaluated by lipoxygenase enzyme inhibition activity and a human red blood cell (HRBC) membrane stability assay. The in vivo anti-inflammatory potential of the plant was determined by the carrageenan-induced paw edema test, and the analgesic potential by the hot plate test, tail-flick test, formalin-induced analgesia, acetic acid-induced writhing activities, and yeast-induced elevation of body temperature. The values of total phenolic content (212.6 ± 3.18 µg GAE/g) and total flavonoid content (37.6 ± 1.76 µg QE/g) were observed. The results showed that OEE exhibited significant antioxidant capacity in DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) (266.3 ± 7.35 μmol TE/g), ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (1,066.3 ± 7.53 μmol TE/g), and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) (483.6 ± 3.84 μmol TE/g) assays. The HPLC analysis demonstrated phytocompounds with anti-inflammatory potential, such as chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and coumarin. The plant showed in vitro anti-inflammatory activity through the inhibition of lipoxygenase enzyme with a high percentage (56.66%) and HRBC membrane stability (67.29%). In in vivo studies, OEE exhibited significant (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory (carrageenan-induced paw edema model), analgesic (hot plate test, tail-flick test, formalin-induced analgesia, and acetic acid-induced writhing), and antipyretic (rectal temperature reduction) responses at different doses (100, 300, and 500 mg/kg). Molecular docking studies showed significant binding affinities of phytocompounds compared to indomethacin and predicted various binding interactions for stable conformations. The results of in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies supported the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic potential of O. esculentum.

Inter-Varietal Variation in Phenolic Profile, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Activities of Two Brassica rapa Varieties: Influence on Pro-Inflammatory Mediators

The present research study aims to appraise the potential of polyphenol-rich extracts from two Brassica rapa varieties on antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities using carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. Methanol extracts of peels and pulps of Brassica rapa yellow root (BRYR) and Brassica rapa white root (BRWR) were prepared using the soxhlet extraction technique. All four extracts were analyzed by reversed-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) for the polyphenols, and results showed that 10 phenolic acids and 4 flavonoids were detected. Gallic acid was the major phenolic acid (174.6-642.3 mg/100 g of dry plant material) while catechin was the major (34.45-358.5 mg/100 g of dry plant material) flavonoid detected in the extracts. The total phenolic contents (TPC) of BRYR peel, BRWR peel, BRYR pulp and BRWR pulp extracts were in the range of 1.21-5.01 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as GAE, whereas the total flavonoid contents (TFC) were found in the range of 0.90-3.95 mg/g of dry plant material, measured as QE. BRYR peel extract exhibited the best DPPH radical scavenging activity (IC50, 3.85 µg/mL) and reducing potential as compared with other extracts. The in vivo anti-inflammatory potential was assessed by carrageenan-induced rat paw edema, and the analgesic potential was investigated by a hot plate test. Suppression of biochemical inflammatory biomarkers including C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentration were also determined. Results showed that BRYR peel extracts reduced paw edema and suppressed the production of TNF-α, IL-6, CRP and RF most significantly, followed by BRWR peel, BRYR pulp and BRWR pulp extracts. In addition, histopathology observation also supports the anti-inflammatory effect of peel extracts as being greater than that of root pulp extracts. Moreover, it was observed that the analgesic effect of the root-peel extracts was also more pronounced as compared with root-pulp extracts. It can be concluded that BRYR peel extract has higher phenolic contents and showed higher suppression of TNF-α, IL-6, CRP and RF, with strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Investigation of Paracetamol Entrapped Nanoporous Silica Nanoparticles in Transdermal Drug Delivery System

An effort was made to administer paracetamol drug through transdermal patch, as no such formulation of this drug has been developed yet. The primary cause for the lack of such formulations is paracetamol's poor aqueous solubility. As a result, the current research concentrated on preparing nanomedicines, or drug-loaded nanoparticles, for delivery via transdermal formulations. Nanoparticles can improve the solubility of weakly aqueous soluble or even aqueous insoluble drugs by changing the crystalline structure of loaded medicines to an amorphous state and serving as drug permeation boosters. Silica nanoparticles (SNPs) were synthesized through sol-gel technique to achieve the aforementioned goal. DLS data revealed that the average particle size was around 100-200 nm, which was sufficient to penetrate the skin barrier. XRD analysis showed that the SNPs were amorphous, and the drug molecules lost their crystallinity after encapsulation into the nanoparticles, causing the enhancement of dissolution of drug molecules in physiological pH (pH-7.4). Different kinetic models were employed for the ex vivo dissolution data to evaluate the suitable kinetic model followed by the drug release in both burst and sustained phase. In vivo analgesic study was executed on mice applying each of the transdermal formulations to examine the performances of the patches.

Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of Daniellia oliveri (Fabaceace) stem bark extract

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Daniellia oliveri (Rolfe) Hutch. & Dalziel (Fabaceae) is used for the treatment of inflammatory diseases and pains (chest pain, toothache and lumbago) and rheumatism.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study investigates the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties of D. oliveri and possible mechanism of antiinflammatory action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Acute toxicity of the extract was evaluated in mice using the limit test. The anti-inflammatory activity was assessed in xylene-induced paw oedema and carrageenan-induced air-pouch models at doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o. Volume of exudate, total protein, leukocyte counts, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and concentration of cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) were measured in the exudate of rats in the carrageenan-induced air-pouch model. Other parameters include lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO) and antioxidant indices (SOD, CAT and GSH). Histopathology of the air pouch tissue was also carried out. The antinociceptive effect was assessed using acetic acid-induced writhing, tail flick and formalin tests. Locomotor activity was done in the open field test. The extract was analysed with HPLC-DAD-UV technique.

RESULTS

The extract showed significant anti-inflammatory effect (73.68 and 75.79%, inhibition) in xylene-induced ear oedema test at the dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively. In carrageenan air pouch model, the extract significantly reduced exudate volume, protein concentration, the migration of leukocytes and MPO production in the exudate. The concentrations of cytokines TNF-α (12.25 ± 1.80 pg/mL) and IL-6 (21.12 pg/mL) in the exudate at the dose of 200 mg/kg were reduced compared to carrageenan alone group (48.15 ± 4.50 pg/mL; 82.62 pg/mL) respectively. The extract showed significant increase in the activities of CAT and SOD and GSH concentration. The histopathological assessment of the pouch lining revealed reduction of immuno-inflammatory cell influx. Nociception was significantly inhibited by the extract in acetic acid-induced writhing model and the second phase of formalin test indicating a peripheral mechanism of action. The open field test showed that D. oliveri did not alter locomotor activity. The acute toxicity study did not cause mortality or signs of toxicity at 2000 mg/kg, p.o. We identified and quantified caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, rutin, apigenin-7-glucoside, quercetin and kaempferol in the extract.

CONCLUSION

The results of our study showed that the stem bark extract of D. oliveri possesses anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities thereby supporting its traditional use in the treatment of some inflammatory and painful disorders.

Phytochemical Investigation, In Silico/In Vivo Analgesic, and Anti-inflammatory Assessment of the Egyptian Cassia occidentalis L

Cassia occidentalis L., from Fabaceae family phytochemical screening, revealed several biologically active principles mainly flavonoids and anthraquinones. GLC analysis of the lipoidal matter afforded 12 hydrocarbons: 9-dodecyl-tetradecahydro-anthracene (48.97 %), 9-dodecyl-tetradecahydro-phenanthrene (14.43 %), and 6 sterols/triterpenes: iso-jaspisterol (11.99%) and fatty acids were palmitic acid (50 %), and Linoleic acid (16.06%). Column chromatography led to the isolation of fifteen compounds (1-15), elucidated using spectroscopic evidence. First report of undecanoic acid (4) from the family Fabaceae, while p-dimethyl amino-benzaldehyde (15) was first time isolated from a natural origin. Eight compounds isolated for the first time from C. occidentalis L.; β-amyrin (1), β-sitosterol (2), stigmasterol (3), camphor (5), lupeol (6), chrysin (7), pectolinargenin (8), and 1, 2, 5-trihydroxy anthraquinone (14) besides five known compounds previously isolated; apigenin (9), kaempferol (10), chrysophanol (11), physcion (12), and aloe-emodin (13). In-vivo evaluation of anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of C. occidentalis L. extracts where the n-butanol and total extracts showed the highest activities. The percentage of the inhibitory effect of the n-butanol extract was 29.7 at a dose of 400 mg/Kg. Furthermore, identified phytoconstituents were docked into the active sites of enzymes nAChRs, COX-1, and COX-2 to evaluate binding affinity. Phyto-compounds Physcion, aloe-emodin, and chrysophanol were found to have a good affinity for targeted receptors compared to co-crystalized inhibitors, validating the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the phytochemicals.

Evaluation of the antibacterial effect of hydroalcoholic extract of the galls of Quercus infectoria on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans

Background

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) plays a vital role in some destructive forms of periodontitis. While mechanical and chemical plaque control is the first step in periodontitis treatment, side effects of adjunctive chemical agents such as chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash have led to the application of natural alternatives with minimal side effects. Therefore, this study evaluated the antibacterial effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Quercus infectoria (Qi) galls on Aa in vitro.

Methods

The hydroalcoholic extract of Qi was obtained by the maceration method, and Aa bacterial strain was cultured. The inhibition zone diameter was measured through the agar well diffusion method. Also, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were determined by the broth microdilution method. All the experiments were repeated three times. 0.2% CHX was used as a control.

Results

The inhibition zone diameter of Aa increased with increasing concentration of Qi extract. While MIC and MBC values for CHX were 0.0039 and 0.0078 mg/mL, respectively, both MIC and MBC values of the Qi extract for this bacterium were similar, i.e., 2.5 mg/mL, which was significantly higherd.

Conclusion

Since other in vivo studies have confirmed the other properties of this extract and its safety in terms of cytotoxicity and mutagenicity, hydroalcoholic extract of Qi may be used in mouthwashes or local delivery systems to affect periodontal biofilm.

Protective assessment of progesterone and its receptor on experimental diabetic neuropathy: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects

Diabetes induces a disorder in mitochondrial activity, which causes damage to the nuclear and mitochondrial DNA and ultimately increases the release of inflammatory cytokines and damages the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglion and induces neuropathy. It has been shown that progesterone has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects and prevents nerve cell damage. Therefore, the aim of this experiment was to investigate the effect of progesterone receptor neuroprotection on diabetic neuropathy. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups, including control group, diabetic control group, diabetic control group + progesterone (30 mg/kg), and diabetic control group + combination of progesterone (30 mg/kg) and RU486 (10 mg/kg). After the induction of diabetes, blood glucose level, body weight, behavioral tests, electrophysiological tests, oxidative and inflammatory factors, and histological parameters were measured. Progesterone treatment significantly reduced the level of sensitivity to hot plate without significant effect on glucose level, and significant changes were also observed in the results of tail flick test. In addition, the results showed that the administration of progesterone can improve MNCV and significantly reduce the serum levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors, as well as inflammation and edema around the sciatic nerve. However, RU486 inverted the beneficial effects of progesterone. Progesterone can be considered as a protective agent in reducing DN because of its ability to reduce inflammation and nerve damage. In addition, RU486, a progesterone receptor blocker, inhibits the beneficial effects of progesterone on the DN; thus, progesterone receptors play an important role in the neuroprotective effect of progesterone.

Euphorbia neriifolia (Indian Spurge Tree): A Plant of Multiple Biological and Pharmacological Activities

Although India has a well-established and growing economy surrounding synthetic drug chemistry with an antibiotic base, a large part of the population, especially in forested villages and tribal belts, is relying solely on plant-derived drugs. This is due to a lower number of side effects, low chances of resistance development against pathogenic microorganisms, as well as the diversity and affordability of such drugs. In the Indian subcontinents, Euphorbia neriifolia Linn. (EN) is one of the valuable plants from the big family of Euphorbiaceae, which is usually found in rocky and hilly areas. E. neriifolia was found to be useful in curing tumors, abdominal swelling, bronchial infection, hydrophobia, earache, cough and cold, asthma, leprosy, gonorrhea, spleen enlargement, leucoderma, snake bites, scorpion stings, and causing appetite improvement, etc. Different in vitro and in vivo experimental studies were performed to determine the antioxidant, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, wound healing, anti-atherosclerosis, radioprotective, anti-anxiety, anti-convulsant, anti-psychotic, anti-thrombotic, dermal irritation, hemolytic, analgesic, anti-fertility, diuretic, anti-microbial, anti-diarrheal, and anti-carcinogenic activities of the various parts of EN. Several bioactive compounds, such as euphol, nerifoliol, taraxerol, euphonerins A–G, lectin, etc., were isolated from E. neriifolia and need to be investigated further for various biological activities (cardiovascular and neuronal diseases). In the pharmaceutical sector, E. neriifolia was selected for the development of new drugs due to its broad pharmacological activities. Therefore, in the present review, distribution, classification, morphological and microscopical description, phytochemical investigation, pharmacological activities, medicinal uses, harmful effects, and their treatment were evaluated, especially against different lifestyle-related diseases.

Evaluation of Analgesics and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Root Extract of Impatiens rothii (Balsaminaceae) in Rodents

Background

The roots of Impatiens rothii has been used as a traditional remedy for painful conditions, rheumatism, isthmus and crural aches. However, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant have yet to be scientifically confirmed. The purpose of this study was to explore possible analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities 80% methanolic root extract of Impatiens rothii.

Methods

To obtain the crude extract, the roots of Impatiens rothii that had been dried and ground up were macerated in 80% methanol. The analgesic activity was determined using acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests in mice, whereas the anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed using carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. The extract was orally administered at a dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg.

Results

All tested doses of Impatiens rothii extract showed significant analgesic activity (p<0.05) at observations of 30 to 120 minutes compared to the negative control in the hot plate test. In acetic acid-induced writhing test all tested doses of the 80% methanol extract of Impatiens rothii significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the number of writhing. In comparison to the control group, all tested doses displayed a significant decrease in paw edema, which appeared 2-5 hours after induction (p<0.05).

Conclusion

From the results of this study, it can be stated that 80% methanolic extract of Impatiens rothii possessed substantial analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, hence providing scientific basis for the use of this plant in the treatment of pain and inflammatory diseases.

Acute paracetamol toxicity-induced inflammatory and oxidative effects are relieved by Aleppo galls: a novel experimental study

BACKGROUND

Paracetamol (acetaminophen) is an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that may cause acute toxic overdosage particularly in neuropsychiatric patients. Paracetamol is also very commonly prescribed as an analgesic and antipyretic agent. Paracetamol toxicity causes decreased reduced glutathione and oxidative tissue damage. Aleppo galls is a promising natural remedy exerting antioxidant and tissue-protective effects that may combat acetaminophen-induced oxidative tissue damage.

METHODOLOGY

Biochemical and toxicological effects of a toxic dose of paracetamol (250 mg/kg) were investigated for three consecutive days versus the tissue-protective effects of Aleppo galls. Eighteen white albino mice were randomly allocated in this study and divided into three experimental groups (six mice per group): negative control (received intraperitoneal sterile water injection), paracetamol toxicity group (received intraperitoneal paracetamol injection) and the third group (received paracetamol injection at 250 mg/kg/day together with oral Aleppo galls treatment at 250 mg/kg/day for 3 consecutive days). All mice were sacrificed by the end of the study.

RESULTS

Our data revealed that paracetamol toxicity exerted significant oxidative stress damaging effects (high serum malondialdehyde, decreased serum catalase and decreased total antioxidant capacity), and significant inflammatory effects (high serum IL-6) and significant tissue-damaging effects (high serum LDH). Aleppo galls treatment significantly protected against acetaminophen toxicity-induced oxidative stress effects (P<0.001), inflammatory effects (P<0.001) and tissue-damaging effects (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Aleppo galls are promising for future drug therapeutics and for the synthesis of natural remedies for treating paracetamol toxicity. We recommend formulating Aleppo galls extract as a pharmaceutical nutrition and to be given to those who need to take large doses of paracetamol.

Gall Nuts Cynips quercusfolii (Linnaeus) and Andricus infectorius (Hartig) as Tannin Raw Materials

The study included gall nuts caused by Cynips quercusfolii collected from Quercus robur and Andricus infectorius, harvested from Quercus infectoria. The evaluation of the percentage content of tannins expressed as a pyrogallol was performed using the analytical methodology recommended by the current “European Pharmacopoeia 10”. In order to compare the chemical composition of the tested samples, chromatographic profiles and ion mass distribution spectra were made using high-performance liquid chromatography techniques coupled with two types of detection: spectrophotometry and mass spectrometry. The average content of tannins expressed as pyrogallol for C. quercusfolii ranged from 13.36% to 14.74%, while for A. infectorius it was from 34.77% to 39.95%. The comparison of both the mass spectra and the chromatographic profiles shows a high similarity of all samples of C. quercusfolii and large differences in the chemical composition compared to A. infectorius. The tested C. quercusfolii should be considered a much poorer tannin source than A. infectorius. It cannot be simultaneously treated as its substitute raw material due to the lower tannins percentage content and different chemical composition. However, compared to other Central European herbal raw materials, C. quercusfolii gall nuts are an alternative tannin source with potential use in herbal medicine and the pharmaceutical industry.

Free Radical Scavenging and Analgesic Activities of 70% Ethanol Extract of Luvunga sarmentosa (BI.) Kurz from Central Kalimantan

Luvunga sarmentosa, commonly known as saluang belum, is widely used in Kalimantan to relieve pains, rheumatism, boost the immune system, and fever. The research on the free radical scavenging and analgesic effect of the L. sarmentosa stem extract has not been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the free radical scavenging and analgesic activity of the ethanol extract of L. sarmentosa. The L. sarmentosa stem was extracted using 70% ethanol and tested for free radical scavenging using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and analgesic activity, acetic acid-induced writhing test, and hot plate test in an animal model. The results showed that the 70% ethanol extract of the L. sarmentosa had an anti-free radical scavenging and analgesic activity. The extract has weak free radical scavenging with an IC50 value of 293.45 µg/mL. Analgesic activity using the writhing test indicated that the extract significantly reduced the writhes count after oral administration in a dose-dependent manner compared to the negative control. Extract at a dose of 550 mg/kg BW can reduce the writhing test by 67.60% compared to others. In contrast, the diclofenac sodium reduced the number of writhes by 74.74%. While in a hot plate, the extract at a dose of 550 mg/kg BW produced a maximum possible analgesia (MPA) of 17.64%, lower than the MPA of diclofenac sodium (51.01%). Analgesic activity of the extract has higher inhibition on the writhing test than on the hot plate. The extract could be responsible for the peripheral mechanism by inhibiting the prostaglandin biosynthesis.

Phytochemical analysis and biological activities of "Cherchoomoro" (Nepeta adenophyta Hedge)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Nepeta adenophyta Hedge (Lamiaceae) is an endemic therapeutic herb from Astore, Gilgit (Pakistan). This plant species has been reported among the local communities, especially for treating abdominal pain, kidney pain, menstrual pain, headache, and controlling bleeding disorders. Therefore, the scientific basis is provided for the relief of pain as it is used in various pain management among the natives, especially as ethnogynecological herbal remedy.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study investigates the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanolic extract of N. adenophyta in animal models. Furthermore, the extract was also studied to determine their valuable phytoconstituents.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The biological effects were determined via tail-flick, hot plate, and acetic-acid-induced abdominal writhing methods. At the same time, anti-inflammatory activity was assesed via oxidative burst and antioxidant DPPH assay. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) techniques were employed to understand the phytochemicals present in the crude ethanolic extract of Nepeta adenophyta.

RESULTS

In the current study, Nepeta adenophyta extract exhibited potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on different pain models and indicated that the analgesic effect of N. adenophyta extract is mediated both in central and peripheral ways. Dose-dependent and significant (P < 0.05) increases were shown in pain threshold, at 45 min post-treatment, with 20 and 40 mg/kg of the extract in the tail-flick model. The effects of the extract were similar to aspirin but lower to those by morphine (2.5 mg/kg) in the same tests. The extract (20-40 mg/kg) showed dose-dependent inhibition of writhing with a significant (P < 0.001) increase protection against thermal stimuli in hot plate test as compared to control and similar to aspirin and morphine. Further, the anti-inflammatory activity of the crude in oxidative burst and DPPH assays showed significant inhibitory activity. The chemical profile analysis showed major phytochemicals, including long chain derivatives of alkane and alcohol, phenolics, naphthalene, naphthopyran, androsten phenanthrenone, nepetalactones, flavonoids etc. CONCLUSIONS: Nepeta adenophyta Hedge is suggested as a natural alternative for mild pain relief. Our findings endorse the folklore use of N. adenophyta in different pain managements which can be attributed to the presence of polyphenolic compounds, naphthalene derivatives, flavanoids and nepetalactones etc.

Phytochemical and pharmacological investigations of different extracts of leaves and stem barks of Macropanax dispermus (Araliaceae): a promising ethnomedicinal plant

Background

Macropanax dispermus is traditionally used to treat various diseases by ethnic people. The present research reports the pharmacological properties with phytochemical profiling of the crude extracts of M. dispermus leaves (MDML), its n-hexane (MDHL), carbon tetrachloride (MDTL), chloroform (MDCL), ethyl acetate (MDEL), and aqueous (MDAL) fractions, and crude methanol extracts of its stem barks (MDMS). The in vitro thrombolytic activity was done on human erythrocytes whereas the cytotoxic activity was done by brine shrimp lethality assay. The in vivo analgesic activity was examined by acetic acid-induced writhing, tail immersion, and formalin-induced paw licking method. In contrast, antipyretic activity was done by the brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia method.

Results

MDHL and MDMS showed 37.05% and 42.21% of significant (p < 0.01) thrombolytic activity, respectively. MDCL and MDMS showed the lower LC50 values of 23.15 and 37.11 µg/ml during cytotoxicity test, respectively. In acetic acid writhing method, MDTL and MDEL showed significant (p < 0.001) inhibition of writhing by 79.34% and 80.17%, respectively. MDMS showed significant (p < 0.001) maximal possible effect (%MPE) of 45.95%, 62.26%, 65.79%, 89.69% and elongation of time in pain reaction of 48.53%, 60.28%, 58.76%, and 70.14% at 30, 60, 90, and 120 min intervals, respectively. MDML at 400 mg/kg exhibited significant (p < 0.001) 82.72% of inhibition of pain at the late phases. MDEL at 400 mg/kg of dose exhibited significant (p < 0.001) reduction of rectal temperature by 36.31%, 62.42%, 89.81%,, and 96.82% at 1, 2, 3, and 4 h intervals, respectively.

Conclusion

The current research suggests that the plant extracts possess potential thrombolytic, cytotoxic, analgesic, and antipyretic activities.

A review of the phytochemical, pharmacological, pharmacokinetic, and toxicological evaluation of Quercus Infectoria galls

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Quercus Infectoria galls (QIG) have a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine and traditional Uyghur medicine for the treatment of diarrhea, hemorrhage, skin disease, and many other human ailments. Medicinal applications of QIG have become increasingly popular in Greece, Asia Minor, Syria, and Iran.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The present paper reviewed the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, analytical methods, biological activities, metabolism, pharmacokinetics, toxicology, and drug interactions of QIG to assess the ethnopharmacological uses, explore its therapeutic potential, and identify future opportunities for research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on QIG was gathered via the Internet (using Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Elsevier, ACS, Pubmed, Web of Science, CNKI, and EMBASE) and libraries. Additionally, information was also obtained from local books and PhD and MS dissertations.

RESULTS

QIG has played an important role in traditional Chinese medicine. The main bioactive metabolites of QIG include tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and steroids. Scientific studies on the QIG extract and its components have shown its wide range of pharmacological activities, such as cholinesterase- and monoamine oxidase-inhibitory, antitumor, anti-hypertension, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, insecticidal, antiparasitic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory.

CONCLUSIONS

The ethnopharmacological, phytochemical, pharmacological, and analytical methods of QIG were highlighted in this review, which provides information for future studies and commercial exploration. QIG has a huge potential for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Moreover, comprehensive toxicity studies of this plant must be conducted to ensure its safety. Additional investigations are recommended to transmute the ethnopharmacological claims of this plant in folklore medicines into scientific rationale-based information. Research on pharmacokinetics studies and potential drug interactions with standard-of-care medications is still limited, which calls for additional studies particularly on humans. Further assessments and clinical trials should be performed before it can be integrated into medicinal practices.

Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Analgesic Activities of Aqueous Extract of Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) H.J. Lam Bark

Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) H.J. Lam is a multipurpose tree used by the Nepalese indigenous people for medicinal purposes such as rheumatism, asthma, and ulcer and other purposes such as cooking and lighting. However, there is no scientific evidence for the medicinal uses of this plant. The present study aimed to explore the phytochemical constituents, estimate the total phenolic content, evaluate antioxidant activity, and investigate the in vivo anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of aqueous extract of Diploknema butyracea (Roxb.) H.J. Lam bark (ADBB). Phytochemical screening was performed using standard methods. The total phenolic content was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteu method. The in vitro antioxidant activity was determined using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging assay and nitric oxide radical scavenging assay. For the in vivo studies, the plant extract was given in three different doses (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight) to male albino Wistar rats. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic studies were carried out using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and the hot plate method, respectively. Results revealed the presence of different phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, terpenoids, and carbohydrates together with a considerable amount of phenolic compounds. Antioxidant assays indicated the potent antioxidant activity of the plant extracts. The higher dose of D. butyracea (200 mg/kg) exhibited a maximum and significant inhibition (53.20%) of rat hind paw edema volume at 4 h and showed a greater increment in latency time (12.15 ± 1.81 sec) in the hot plate test at 120 min. The present study demonstrated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic potential of ADBB, which supports its traditional medicinal use.

Evaluation of Analgesic Activities of Extracts of Two Marine Molluscs: Tympanotonus fuscatus var radula (Linnaeus) and Pachymelania aurita (Müller)

PURPOSE AND METHODS

In this study, the analgesic activity of the crude alcohol (acetone-methanol) and aqueous (in PBS, pH 7.2) extracts of the marine molluscs, Pachymelania aurita and Tympanotonus fuscatus, has been evaluated using the formalin test (for chronic antinociceptive) and the tail-flick (acute antinociceptive) pain models in male swiss albino mice.

RESULTS

The results show that the extracts of P. aurita and T. fuscatus demonstrated high safety margins as single doses of up to 2000 mg/kg bwt proved to be well tolerated and non-lethal, although the alcohol extract of P. aurita caused necrosis in the liver and kidney when administered at a dose level of 2000 mg/kg bwt. In the formalin test, treatment with the aqueous extracts of P. aurita and T. fuscatus as well as the alcohol extract of T. fuscatus 30 min before the subcutaneous injection of 5% formalin to the paw of the mice resulted in a significant time- and dose-dependent reduction in total and phase 2a pain-related behavior and thus nociception. The extracts had no analgesic effect in tail-flick test up to the highest dose tested.

CONCLUSION

Hence, the results from both models indicate that the site of their analgesic action is probably peripheral.

A Comprehensive Review of Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Quercus Species

The Quercus genus provides a large amount of biomaterial with many applications in fields like pharmaceutics, cosmetics, and foodstuff areas. Due to the worldwide dissemination of the genus, many species were used for centuries in traditional healing methods or in the wine maturing process. This review aims to bring together the results about phytoconstituents from oak extracts and their biological applicability as antioxidants, antimicrobial, anticancer, etc. The literature data used in this paper were collected via PubMed, Scopus, and Science Direct (2010–June 2020). The inclusion criteria were papers published in English, with information about phytoconstituents from Quercus species (leaves, bark and seeds/acorns) and biological activities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antiobesity, anti-acne vulgaris, antifungal, anticancer, antiviral, antileishmanial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory. The exclusion criteria were the research of other parts of the Quercus species (e.g., galls, wood, and twigs); lack of information about phytochemistry and biological activities; non-existent Quercus species reported by the authors. The most studied Quercus species, in terms of identified biomolecules and biological activity, are Q. brantii, Q. infectoria and Q. robur. The Quercus species have been reported to contain several phytoconstituents. The main bioactive phytochemicals are phenolic compounds, volatile organic compounds, sterols, aliphatic alcohols and fatty acids. The, Quercus species are intensely studied due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities, provided by their phytochemical composition. The general conclusion is that oak extracts can be exploited for their biological activity and can be used in research fields, such as pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and medical.

Pharmacological evidence for the use of Cissus assamica as a medicinal plant in the management of pain and pyrexia

The existing therapeutic agents for the management of pain and pyrexia are not very efficient and accompanied by numerous side effects. Thus, new effective agents are the most needed. The present study investigates bioactivities and phytochemical screening of different parts of Cissus assamica (Vitaceae), a Bangladeshi tribal medicinal plant. Three plant parts stems, leaves and roots were collected, washed, dried, powdered and then prepared for cold extraction. The methanolic stems and leaves extracts were fractioned with four and two solvents respectively. Different plant extracts were then investigated for in vivo antinociceptive activity and only methanolic leaves extract was investigated for in vivo antipyretic activity. In Swiss-albino mice, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight doses were used for all extracts. In the peripheral antinociceptive activity, the methanolic stem extract and its dichloromethane, chloroform, pet ether fractions and methanolic roots extract at their both doses showed significant antinociceptive responses when compared to standard diclofenac sodium (60.49% inhibition). In the central antinociceptive activity, the response was found significant for methanolic stem and methanolic roots extract in their both doses compared to standard morphine. In antipyretic activity, methanolic leaves extract significantly reduced pyrexia level at 400 and 200 mg/kg body weight doses after two, three and 4 h of administration when compared to standard. So our findings indicate that this plant possesses noteworthy pharmacological activities which may be a basis for further researches to establish a possible mode of action of its different parts.

Design of enkephalin modifications protected from brain extracellular peptidases providing long-term analgesia

The main obstacle to the use of many therapeutic peptides in practice is their rapid destruction by extracellular peptidases. Earlier we have found that active in the extracellular medium of mammalian brain exopeptidases are unable to break the bonds formed by β-alanine. We have designed several modified forms of opioid peptide enkephalin (Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Met; Enk) with end βAla: ModEnk1 (βAla-Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-Met-βAla), ModEnk2 (βAla-Tyr-Gly-Gly-Phe-NH₂), ModEnk3 (βAla-Tyr-Gly-Phe-NH₂). These modifications are much more stable than Enk in the suspension of isolated axonal endings (synaptosomes) that mimics the brain extracellular medium. ModEnk1-3 have been tested in standard "pain" experiment "tail flick" on rats using intranasal peptide administration. ModEnk1 and ModEnk2 (but not ModEnk3) have fully preserved pain-relieving properties of Enk, but their efficiency was maintained for much longer. Compared to ModEnk1, ModEnk2 is more stable and provides longer analgesia because it is less accessible for endopeptidases. They are potent non-toxic analgesics.

In-vivo and in-vitro evaluation of pharmacological activities of Ardisia solanacea leaf extract

Background

The Bangladeshi rural and hilly areas people have long tradition to use various medicinal plants for treating different diseases. That’s why, the crude methanolic leaf extract of Ardisia solanacea with its different fractions (petroleum ether, carbon tetrachloride, n-hexane and chloroform fractions) were subjected to investigate bioactivities in swiss albino mice; namely analgesic, CNS, and Oral hypoglycemic activities, while in-vitro evaluation of cytotoxicity.

Methods

Central nervous system activity was investigated by various method such as Elevated plus maze, Hole board, Hole cross and Open field test apparatus. Analgesic activity was evaluated by both acetic acid induced and tail immersion method. Hypoglycemic activity was evaluated by oral glucose tolerance test and cytotoxicity was evaluated by Brine shrimp lethality bioassay.

Results

In CNS activity, among others fractions, ASCF fraction produced a significant anxiolytic activity in both elevated plus maze and Hole board test. During open-field test almost all the fractions of A. solanacea leaves extract display decreased locomotor activities that indicates significant sedative activity. The ASME and ASCF showed significant peripheral analgesic activity at a dose of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight (p < 0.05). In tail immersion method, among others extracts chloroform fractions exhibited significant (p < 0.05) elongation of reaction time 30 min after oral dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight respectively. The methanolic and n-hexane extracts reduced blood glucose level significantly after 90 min with value of 53.94% and 48.15% respectively (p < 0.05). In case of cytotoxicity activity, among other fractions carbon tetrachloride fraction showed lowest LC50 values.

Conclusions

From the above results, it is clear that different fractions of A. solanacea showed significant pharmacological potentiality in different in-vitro and in-vivo study model. So, it will be very much possible source for an isolating lead compound for curing the numerous disorders.

Enrichment of Eucalyptus oil nanoemulsion by micellar nanotechnology: transdermal analgesic activity using hot plate test in rats' assay

Eucalyptus globulus is an aromatic medicinal plant which known for its 1,8-cineole main pharmacological constituent exhibits as natural analgesic agent. Eucalyptus globulus-loaded micellar nanoparticle was developed via spontaneous emulsification technique and further evaluation for its analgesic efficacy study, in vivo analgesic activity assay in rats. The nanoemulsion system containing Eucalyptus-micelles was optimized at different surfactant types (Tween 40, 60 and 80) and concentrations (3.0, 6.0, 9.0, 12.0, 15.0, and 18.0 wt. %). These formulations were characterized by thermodynamically stability, viscosity, micelles particle size, pH, and morphology structure. The spontaneous emulsification technique offered a greener micelles formation in nanoemulsion system by slowly titrated of organic phase, containing Eucalyptus globulus (active compound), grape seed oil (carrier oil) and hydrophilic surfactant into aqueous phase, and continuously stirred for 30 min to form a homogeneity solution. The characterizations evaluation revealed an optimized formulation with Tween 40 surfactant type at 9.0 wt. % of surfactant concentration promoted the most thermodynamic stability, smaller micelles particle size (d = 17.13 ± 0.035 nm) formed with spherical shape morphological structure, and suitable in viscosity (≈2.3 cP) and pH value (6.57) for transdermal purpose. The in vivo analgesic activity assay of optimized emulsion showed that the transdermal administration of micellar nanoparticle of Eucalyptus globulus on fore and hind limb of rats, possessed the central and peripheral analgesic effects by prolonged the rats pain responses towards the heat stimulus after being put on top of hot plate (55 °C), with longest time responses, 40.75 s at 60 min after treatment administration. Thus, this study demonstrated that micellar nanoparticle of Eucalyptus globulus formed in nanoemulsion system could be promising as an efficient transdermal nanocarrier for the analgesic therapy alternative.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoside Isolated from Indian Medicinal Plant Melothria heterophylla

Background: Melothria heterophylla (family: Cucurbitaceae), commonly known as kudari, is used in the Indian traditional medicine to treat various inflammation-associated diseases, such as asthma, arthritis and pain. However, the anti-inflammatory active components of this plant have not been identified yet. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of a compound, quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoside, isolated from M. heterophylla. Methods: The anti-inflammatory activity was determined using carrageenan- and dextran-induced rat paw edema as well as cotton pellet-induced granuloma in rats, whereas the analgesic activity was analyzed using acetic acid-induced writhing, hot plate and tail flick response in mice. The test compound was orally administered at a dose of 5, 10 or 15 mg/kg. The cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1)- and COX-2-inhibitory capacity of the test compound was studied by enzyme immunosorbent assay. Results: Quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoglucoside at 15 mg/kg exhibited a maximum inhibition of carrageenan-induced inflammation (50.3%, p < 0.05), dextran (52.8%, p < 0.05), and cotton pellets (41.4%, p < 0.05) compared to control animals. At the same dose, it showed a 73.1% inhibition (p < 0.05) of the pain threshold in acetic acid-induced writhing model. It also exhibited a considerable analgesic activity by prolonging the reaction time of the animals based on hot plate as well as tail flick response. The test compound was found to inhibit COX-1 (IC50 2.76 µg/mL) and more efficiently, COX-2 (IC50 1.99 µg/mL). Conclusions: Quercetin-3-methoxy-4'-glucosyl-7-glucoside possessed substantial analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities possibly due to inhibition of prostaglandin production, supporting the ethnomedicinal application of M. heterophylla to treat various inflammatory disorders.

Effect of the combined action of Quercus cortex extract and probiotic substances on the immunity and productivity of broiler chickens

Aim:

This study was designed to investigate the synergistic effect of the combined action of probiotic bacterial strains (Bifidobacterium adolescentis and Lactobacillus acidophilus) and Quercus cortex extract as biologically active substances in the feed on the immunity and productivity of Gallus gallus domesticus.

Materials and Methods:

For the experiment, 120 7-day-old broiler chickens were selected (4 groups, n=30, 3 replicates with 10 birds in each group). The groups were as follows: The reference group - basic diet (BD); experimental Group I - BD + Q. cortex extract (Q. cortex), 2.5 ml/kg of body weight; experimental Group II - BD + probiotic preparation based on B. adolescentis, 80.0 million colony-forming units (CFU), and L. acidophilus, 1.0 million CFU (dosage in accordance with the recommendations of the manufacturer); and experimental Group III - BD + probiotic + extract of Q. cortex. The following methods of study were used: Chemiluminescence and biochemical and hematological analysis.

Results:

The results of the experiment showed a slight decrease in the level of leukocytes in Groups II (p≤0.05) and III, and of hemoglobin in Group III (p≤0.05), compared to the reference group. The level of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in Group II was higher than both the reference group (p≤0.05) and the other groups. Introduction of Q. cortex extract into the diet increased the level of triglycerides (p≤0.05) and urea in the blood serum. The combined use of probiotic preparations and the extract resulted in an increase in the level of iron in the blood serum by 78.1% (p≤0.05) in Group III. An increase in indicators of the antioxidant system (catalase increased in Group I by 27.2% (p≤0.05) and by 3.0–12.7% in other groups; superoxide dismutase increased by 3.0–13.2%) and nonspecific immunity (β-lysine increased by 8.8–16.0%) was noted. Introduction of the extract and probiotic preparation into the diet contributed to increasing the live weight of chickens at the age of 15 days by 5.9 and 7.4%, respectively (p≤0.05). In experimental Group II, this trend continued, and by the end of the period, the weight of animals exceeded that of their peers in other groups by 0.7-7.0%. Given the high preservation rate of poultry in the II and III Groups, and the low feed consumption per 1 kg of live weight gain (by 3.1–6.7%), the efficiency of growth was higher than in the reference group.

Conclusion:

Thus, the combined use of probiotic strains of bacteria and Q. cortex extract helped to increase the antioxidant activity of the organism and antimicrobial components of blood plasma compared with broiler chickens with similar growth rates but without the supplementation of this combination.

Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Diethyl Ether and n-Hexane Extract of Polyalthia suberosa Leaves

In folk medicine, Polyalthia suberosa is used as abortifacient, laxative, febrifuge analgesic, filler of tooth cavities, and anti-HIV drug and for rheumatism and various skin infections. The present study was directed to evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities of diethyl ether and n-hexane extracts of Polyalthia suberosa leaves (PSDE and PSNH). A variety of tests including formalin-induced paw licking test, acetic acid induced writhing test, and tail immersion test were used to assess the analgesic activity. In addition, xylene-induced ear edema test was used to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity of PSDE and PSNH. PSDE and PSNH at 200 and 400 mg/kg doses expressed analgesic as well as anti-inflammatory activities in mice. In formalin-induced paw licking test, acetic acid induced writhing test, and xylene-induced ear edema test, the extracts exhibited significant inhibition (^⁎P < 0.05 versus control) of pain and inflammation. Alternatively, in tail immersion test, PSDE 400 mg/kg showed significant (^⁎P < 0.05 versus control) latency at 30 min but another tested sample had no significant latency. From this study, it could be shown that Polyalthia suberosa leaves may contain analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents which support its use in traditional medicine.

The bioguided fractionation and pharmacological activity of an endemic Salix canariensis species

The present study was designed to confirm the wide traditional use of treating pain with Salix canariensis, an endemic species of the Macaronesian region. The active compounds were identified. Pharmacological activities were explored in experimental animals by acetic acid-induced writhing, formalin and Levy's tests, and bioactive compounds were identified after a bio-guided fractionation of the most active organic extract. S. canariensis extract, orally administrated at different doses, led to a significant reduction in writhing, caused a moderate decrease of formalin-induced pain and revealed an excellent dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effect. Bioassay-guided fractionation of the ethyl acetate extract suggested the possible presence of pentacyclic triterpenes from oleanane and ursane series. These findings allow the conclusion that S. canariensis exerts analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, documenting its traditional use in the treatment of pain and inflammatory diseases.

Evaluation of Analgesic Activity of Papaver libanoticum Extract in Mice: Involvement of Opioids Receptors

Papaver libanoticum is an endemic plant to Lebanese region (family Papaveraceae) that has not been investigated before. The present study aimed to explore the analgesic activity of dried ethanolic extract of Papaver libanoticum (PLE) using tail flick, hot plate, and acetic acid induced writhing models in mice. The involvement of opioid receptors in the analgesic mechanism was investigated using naloxone antagonism. Results demonstrated that PLE exhibited a potent dose dependent analgesic activity in all tested models for analgesia. The analgesic effect involved activation of opioid receptors in the central nervous system, where both spinal and supraspinal components might be involved. The time course for analgesia revealed maximum activity after three hours in both tail flick and hot plate methods, which was prolonged to 24 hours. Metabolites of PLE could be responsible for activation of opioid receptors. The EC50 of PLE was 79 and 50 mg/kg in tail flick and hot plate tests, respectively. The total coverage of analgesia by PLE was double that of morphine in both tests. In conclusion, PLE proved to have opioid agonistic activity with a novel feature of slow and prolonged effect. The present study could add a potential tool in the armaments of opioid drugs as a natural potent analgesic and for treatment of opioid withdrawal syndrome.

Scientific investigation of crude alkaloids from medicinal plants for the management of pain

BACKGROUND

Tissue damage is associated with pain, which is an alarming sign. Aspirin and morphine have been widely used in recent decades for management of pain. Medicinal herbs have been in use for treatment of different diseases for centuries. Many of these herbs possess analgesic activity with relatively less incidences of adverse effects. The strong positive correlation of alkaloids in medicinal plants for analgesic activity persuades an intention to determine possible analgesic activity of total alkaloids extracted from the selected medicinal plants using animal models to answer its possible mechanisms.

METHODS

Crude alkaloids from selected medicinal plants (Woodfordia fruticosa, Adhatoda vasica, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Vitex negundo, Peganum harmala and Broussonetia papyrifera) were extracted as per reported literature. The test crude alkaloids were screened foracute toxicity study. Writhings induced by acetic acid, tail immersion method and formalin-induced nociception assay procedures were used for possible analgesic effects of the crude alkaloids.

RESULTS

Crude alkaloids were safe up to dose of 1250 mg/kg body weight in mice. The alkaloids significantly reduced the abdominal constrictions, and increased the time for paw licking response in both phases with a significant raise in latency time in nociception models (P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, the antinociceptive response was significantly attenuated by pretreatment with naloxone suggesting involvement of the opioid receptors for possible antinociceptive action.

CONCLUSIONS

Crude alkaloids of Woodfordia fruticosa and Peganum harmala showed prominent analgesic potentials through inhibition of peripheral as well as central nervous system mechanisms. Further work is required for isolation of the pharmacologically active constituents.

Analgesic and Antipyretic Activities of Methanol Extract and Its Fraction from the Root of Schoenoplectus grossus

The study aims to evaluate analgesic and antipyretic activities of the methanol extract and its different fractions from root of Schoenoplectus grossus using acetic acid induced writhing and radiant heat tail flick method of pain models in mice and yeast induced pyrexia in rats at the doses of 400 and 200 mg/kg. In acetic acid writhing test, the methanol extract, petroleum ether, and carbon tetrachloride fractions produced significant (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05) inhibition of writhing responses in dose dependent manner. The methanol extract at 400 and 200 mg/kg being more protective with 54% and 45.45% of inhibition compared to diclofenac sodium of 56% followed by petroleum ether fractions of 49.69% and 39.39% at the same doses. The extracts did not produce any significant antinociceptive activity in tail flick test except standard morphine. When studied on yeast induced pyrexia, methanol and petroleum ether fractions significantly lowered the rectal temperature time dependently in a manner similar to standard drug paracetamol and distinctly more significant (P < 0.001) after second hour. These findings suggest that the root extracts of S. grossus possess significant peripherally acting analgesic potential and antipyretic property. The phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins.