Anti-inflammatory activity of roots of Ecbolium viride (Forsk) Merrill

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Traditionally the aqueous extracts of dried roots of the plant Ecbolium viride are used for menorrhagia, rheumatism and jaundice. Aim of the study: The aim was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of Ecbolium viride extract in an in vivo model. Materials and methods: The ethyl acetate fraction of Ecbolium viride root extract was prepared and administered orally to rats. The anti-inflammatory activity of Ecbolium viride was determined by carrageenan-induced paw edema and cotton pellet granuloma models. Results: Oral administration of Ecbolium viride extract reduced inflammation significantly (P<0.01) in both the carageenan paw edema and the cotton pellet granuloma models. Conclusions: The results of the study supported the traditional use of Ecbolium viride in the treatment for inflammatory disease. © 2010 Elsevier Ireland Ltd.