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Original
Research Article
Antipyretic and
Analgesic Effects of the Aqueous Extract of the Fruit
Pulp of Hunteria umbellata K Schum (Apocynaceae)
Ighodaro Igbe1*,
Raymond I Ozolua1, Steve O Okpo1
and Osahon Obasuyi2
1Departments
of Pharmacology & Toxicology and 2Pharmaceutical
Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin,
Benin City 300001, Nigeria
*Corresponding
author: E-mail: igbero2002@yahoo.com
Tel: +234-8035023349
Received: 10 November
2008
Revised accepted: 16 May 2009
Tropical
Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, August 2009; 8(4):
331-336
Abstract
Purpose:
The aqueous fruit pulp extract of Hunteria umbellata K.
Schum is used traditionally for the treatment of various
fevers. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the
extract for antipyretic and analgesic activity, and
determine its probable mechanism of action.
Methods:
Pyrexia was induced in rabbits by intravenous injection
of 105 CFU of E. coli/kg. Rectal temperature
was monitored at 30, 60, and 90 min post-administration
of 250 and 500 mg/kg of the extract. The analgesic
effect of the extract was evaluated using acetic
acid-induced mouse writhing test. The extract was tested
for antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus,
Klebsiella pnuemoniae, Escherichia coli, and Psuedomonas
aeruginosa using agar diffusion method. Phytochemical
screening of the plant extract was also carried out.
Results:
Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of simple
sugars, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids and steroidal
compounds. The extract (250, 500 mg/kg) and aspirin
produced comparable antipyretic effects up to 60 min.
The extract did not inhibit the growth of the
microorganisms but significantly reduced the number of
writhes in mice at 250 and 500 mg/kg with results
comparable to ASA.
Conclusion:
The extract possesses antipyretic and analgesic
activities which validate its use in the treatment of
pains and fevers.
Keywords:
Hunteria umbellata; Anti-pyrexic; Analgesic;
Antibacterial effect. |
