Anti-inflammatory Activity of Azima tetracantha Root Bark Extract in Rats

Abstract

Inflammation is associated with many pathological conditions such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel syndrome, cancer, etc. The side effects associated with the long term use of current anti-inflammatory drugs necessitates the need for the development of new drug with fewer side effects. The present study was aimed at evaluating anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of Azima tetracantha root bark, a plant widely used by tribal people and in Siddha medicine for the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism. Aqueous and methanolic extracts of Azima tetracantha root bark were prepared. Total phenol, flavoid, alkaloid, terpenoid and saponin content were analyzed. The anti-oxidant activity was determined by DPPH assay and total antioxidant capacity. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by carrageenan induced paw edema model in rats. The total phenol and flavonoid contents were higher in methanolic extract compared to aqueous extract. The extracts were found to have anti-oxidant activity and dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity in both male and female rats with highest average inhibition at 400 mg/kg. The results confirm the traditional use of this plant against inflammatory disorders and could be source for the development of novel drugs.