Abstract
ABSTRACT A methanol extract and fractions (pet ether and methanol) of Aframomum melegueta K. Schum (Zingiberacea) seeds were evaluated for anti-inflammatory activity. An acute toxicity test in mice was used to establish an i.p. LD50 of 2154 mg/kg for the methanol extract. The methanol extract and the pet ether fraction (oil) significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited xylene-induced topical edema in the mouse ear. In contrast, the methanol soluble fraction exhibited no topical anti-inflammatory activity. The methanol extract and the pet ether and methanol fractions had systemic anti-inflammatory activity, significantly (P < 0.05) inhibiting rat paw edema induced by egg albumin. An ulcerogenic assay in rats revealed zero ulcer incidence for the methanol extract and the pet ether and methanol fractions, suggesting a possible non-inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. Phytochemical analysis of the methanol extract revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, sterols, triterpenes, and oils, while the methanol fraction contained alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, sterols, and resins. The study results indicate that seeds of Aframomum melegueta possess potent anti-inflammatory activity with a favorable gastric tolerability profile.
Published Version
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