Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of docosahexaenoic acid on carrageenan induced paw oedema in rats

Abstract

Background: Inflammation is a tissue reaction to infection, irritation of foreign substance. It is a part of the host defence mechanism but if in excess it becomes harmful. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is omega-3-derivative of alpha-linolenic acid. This study was conducted to determine the anti-inflammatory activity of DHA and its comparison with standard drug diclofenac.Methods: The study was carried out by using inflammatory models in male albino rats. Rats were divided into 4 groups of 6 animals of each. The anti-inflammatory activity was studied with carrageenan induced rat paw edema. The anti-inflammatory activity of DHA was compared with standard drug diclofenac. The study parameters for acute inflammation was assessment of reduction in inflammation and the percentage inhibition of the paw edema.Results: DHA 200 mg/kg, DHA 300 mg/kg, and diclofenac 10 mg/kg showed 58%, 64%, and 67% reduction in paw volume, respectively. The DHA showed significant (p<0.05) anti-inflammatory activity in both dosages as compared to control and was dose dependent.Conclusions: DHA produced dose dependent anti-inflammatory activity which suggest its probable use in the treatment of inflammation.