Antioedematogenic and anti-inflammatory actions of Phragmanthera incana (Schum) Balle leaf in carrageenan-induced inflammation models in rats

Abstract

Phragmanthera incana (Schum) is a specie of mistletoe that has been mentioned in Nigeria ethnomedicine to be used in the treatment of inflammatory disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of Phragmanthera incana leaf ethanol extract (PIEE) in carrageenan-induced inflammation models in rats. In the carrageenan-induced rat paw oedema experiment, 0.1 mL of carrageenan (1%) was injected into the paw one hour after treatment with PIEE (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg). Paw volume was measured hourly for 4 h using the plethysmometer. The anti-inflammatory activity was investigated using the carrageenan-induced air pouch inflammation model. Leucocytes migration and pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α and IL-6) were evaluated in the air pouch exudate. Oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, Nitrite, GSH and Catalase) were estimated in both the carrageenan-induced paw tissue homogenates and air pouch exudate. PIEE (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg) administration significantly (p < 0.05) reduced paw oedema hourly post-carrageenan injection. PIEE administration displayed dose-dependent significant (p < 0.05) reduction in fluid exudates and total leucocytes counts respectively. The extract administration also decreased elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) levels respectively. PIEE administration demonstrated antioxidant activity by attenuating carrageenan-induced increase in malondialdehyde and nitrite as well as decrease in reduced glutathione and catalase levels in rats. Phragmanthera incana leaf ethanol extract possess anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting protective function in inflammatory diseases.