Preliminary evaluation of antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of petroleum ether extracts of Butea monosperma (L.) leaves in laboratory animals

Abstract

The petroleum ether extract of the leaves of Butea monosperma was investigated for its antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity in respective animal models. In the present study leaves were extracted successively to obtain extract. The phytochemical analysis of extract contains alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids and glycosides. This extract was screened at a dose 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg orally for its antinociceptive activity using writhing, tail immersion and hot plate test while for anti-inflammatory activity, carrageenan, serotonin and histamine induced rat paw edema model used. Oral administration of 200 and 400 mg/kg of extract exhibited significant (p<0.001) antinociceptive activity in writhing, tail immersion and hot plate test. In rat paw edema model by carrageenan, serotonin and histamine, the extract was found to be reduce significantly (p<0.001) the formation of edema at a dose of 200 and 400 mg/kg at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 h. Butea monosperma possesses evident antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities. The results signify the traditional uses of butea monosperma for inflammation and pain.