Pharmacological Investigation of the Active Fractions of Ficus benjamina Leaf Extract

Abstract

Objective: Ficus benjamina, commonly known as the weeping fig, is valued for its medicinal properties and potential health benefits. Due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, it can treat infections, reduce inflammation, and minimize oxidative damage. This study aimed to investigate the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects, along with the acute toxicity, of ethyl acetate (EA) and n-hexane (n-H) fractions derived from ethanolic leaf extract. Methods: In vivo evaluations were conducted to assess the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and acute toxicity effects of the extracts. The acetic acid-induced writhing method was used to evaluate analgesic activity, while the formaldehyde-induced paw edema method was employed to assess anti-inflammatory effects. Antipyretic activity was determined by monitoring changes in rectal temperature in mice. Acute oral toxicity testing was performed according to OECD Guideline 423 (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) using the Fixed Dose Procedure. Results: The extract of F. benjamina exhibited significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activities. In analgesic tests, the ethyl acetate fraction (250 and 500 mg/kg) inhibited pain by 36.78% and 48.27%, respectively, while the n-hexane fraction showed 37.93% and 49.42% inhibition. Anti-inflammatory assays confirmed significant activity, with the ethyl acetate fraction reducing inflammation by 34.24% and 36.98%, and the n-hexane fraction by 27.84% and 29.17% at the same respective doses. Both fractions demonstrated antipyretic effects, with the ethyl acetate fraction (500 mg/kg) showing the highest efficacy. Acute toxicity tests indicated no toxic effects at doses up to 5000 mg/kg. Conclusion: F. benjamina leaf extract demonstrated notable analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic properties.