Anti-inflamatory Effects of Aqueous Extract of Alchornea cordifolia in Wistar Rats

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) ranks chronic inflammatory diseases as the greatest threat to human health. The current study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of aqueous leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia on Wistar rats. Twenty Wistar rats of both genders weighing between 110-178g were used for this study. Egg albumin was used for induction of inflammation. The rats were grouped into five groups of 4 per group. Groups 3, 4 and 5 received 400, 800mg/kg b.w of aqueous extract and reference drug respectively after induction. Groups 1 and 2 served as normal and negative controls. Rats were sacrificed and blood samples collected for hematological and biochemical analyses. Phytochemical screening of the plant revealed the presence of alkaloid, phenolic compounds, Tannins and Quinine.  Result showed significant in (p≤ 0.05) in paw size, rectal temperature and number of writhing in group 2 and non-significant reduction (p ≥ 0.05) in group 4 were seen when compared to group 1 and 2 respectively. Significant (p≤0.05) increase in C-reactive protein and nitric oxide concentrations were observed in groups 3 and 4 when contrasted to group 2 in the studies. Non-significant differences in all hematological parameters in all treated groups were observed when compared to group 2. Aqueous leaf extract of Alchornae cordifolia displayed anti-inflammatory effects at 800 mg/ kg b.w after 4 hours of treatment.