Anti-inflammatory Activity of Argyreia populifolia Leaf Juice

Abstract

Leaves of Argyreia populifoLia Choisy (Convolvulaceae) is used in traditional medicine for inflammation in joints and Arthropod bites. However, the pharmacological confirmation for anti-inflammatory activity of the leaves are lacking. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory action of the leaves using carrageenan-induced paw oedema test in rats. 10 mllkg oral dose of fresh juice of the leaves significantly impaired the initial phase of the acute inflammatory response (by 33%) in this model. The juice showed a marked anti-histamine activity when assessed using histamine-induced vascular permeability test. It was concluded that the leaf juice has anti-inflammatory activity mediated via antihistamine action justifying its use in traditional medicine.