In vitro anti-inflammatory and cytotoxicity of crinum x amabile grown in ecuador

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this research was to assess the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity and cytotoxicity of the methanolic extract and total alkaloid extract obtained from leaves and bulbs of Crinum x amabile (CA) growing in Ecuador. Methods: Methanolic extracts of dry powered leaves and bulbs of CA obtained by cold maceration method were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening. Total alkaloid extracts of leaves and bulbs of CA were obtained by conventional extraction of alkaloids base with an organic solvent. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory activity and cytotoxicity of the four extracts were investigated by in vitro isolated neutrophils model using stable tetrazolium salt (WST-1). Results: Phytochemical analysis of methanolic extracts revealed the major classes of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, triterpenes, and steroids, but no proteins or saponins could be detected on leaves extract. Extracts obtained from bulbs both methanolic and total alkaloids of CA show an interesting anti-inflammatory activity, although it was not significant compared to the standard anti-inflammatory drug, aspirin. Cytotoxicity of bulb alkaloid extract was lower compared with all of the other extracts. Conclusion: Based on the results of this research, it could be concluded that CA is a very interesting source of natural anti-inflammatory compounds (especially alkaloids) which could be used to prevent many chronic disorders. Further, phytochemical studies are necessary to identify the chemical compounds responsible for the significant anti-inflammatory activity showed.