ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF IPOMOEA RENIFORMIS METHANOLIC EXTRACT

Abstract

In the present study, methanolic extract of Ipomoea reniformis herb (MEIR) in acute, subacute and chronic models of inflammation was assessed in rats. Administration of MEIR (200, 400 mg/kg, p.o.) exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity. In acute inflammation as produced by Carrageenan 59.55 % and 64.04 % protection was observed. While in subacute anti-inflammatory models using formaldehyde-induced hind paw edema (after 1.5 h) 38.36 % and 47.95 % and in chronic anti-inflammatory model using cotton pellet granuloma 15.02 % and 19.19 % protection from inflammation was observed. MEIR did not show any sign of toxicity and mortality up to a dose level of 1000 mg/kg, p.o. in rats. The results obtained suggest that the methanolic extract of Ipomoea reniformis herb (MEIR) is endowed with effective anti-inflammatory activity mediated via either by inhibition of cyclooxygenase cascade and by blocking the release of vasoactive substances (histamine, serotonin and kinins). These findings seem to justify the use of the plant in traditional Indian medicine in the treatment of inflammation, including arthritic conditions.