Anti-inflammatory effect of a methanolic extract of leaves of Dregea volubilis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to establish the anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic extract of Dregea volubilis leaves (MEDV) with its fractions and to delineate the possible mechanism of action for MEDV.

METHODS

The anti-inflammatory activities of MEDV along with its petroleum ether and chloroform fractions were evaluated in a carrageenan induced model of acute inflammation. The effect of MEDV on lipopolysaccharide induced production of nitric oxide (NO) in macrophages was also studied.

RESULTS

MEDV (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight) significantly reduced carrageenan induced paw edema; chloroform fraction was most potent (66%, p<0.001). MEDV was non-toxic up to 125 μg/ml in mouse peritoneal macrophages wherein it (0-100 μg/ml) reduced lipopolysaccharide induced NO production.

CONCLUSIONS

MEDV possesses significant anti-inflammatory activity. Chloroform fraction of MEDV showed best anti-inflammatory activity.