Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of aqueous extracts of dried leaves of Murraya koenigii Linn.

Abstract

Background: Murraya koenigii, commonly known as karipatta or curry leaf, is analgesic and can be used effectively against inflammation and itching. The various pharmacological activities such as vasodilation, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, antiulcer, analgesic, phagocytic, and antioxidant activities of this plant have also been reported. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of aqueous extract of dried leaves of M. koenigii Linn. in male Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Adult male Wistar rats (100–150 g body weight) were used in this study. Aqueous extract of M. koenigii Linn. was used to evaluate acute anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity by plethysmometer and hot plate method by oral administration at doses of 100, 300, and 500 mg/kg body weight in healthy albino rats. Result: In acute studies, the aqueous extract showed anti-inflammatory activity by significant reduction in the paw edema volume, in a dose-dependent manner when compared with the control and standard drug. Aqueous extract of M. koenigii Linn. significantly and dose-dependently reduced the number of acetic acid-induced writhing and significantly increased the latency of paw licking in hot plate method. Statistical analysis was carried out by one-way ANOVA, followed by Turkey's test. Conclusion: Aqueous extract of M. koenigii Linn. possesses both anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity in a dose-dependent manner.