Abstract

Background: Inflammation is an essential biological protective response of the body which can occur due to various external and internal stimuli. Although it is an essential response, excess inflammation can be detrimental and hence it should be controlled with appropriate medication.

Aims and Objectives: To assess the anti-inflammatory property of ethanolic extract of Aegle marmelos leaves in Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods: A total of 24 male adult Wistar albino rats weighing approximately 150–200 g were used in the study. Acute anti-inflammatory activity was tested by employing a carrageenan-induced paw edema model. 24 rats were divided randomly into 4 groups. The study was conducted with Group I as the control group. Groups II and III received indomethacin (25 mg/kg) and 200 mg/kg of extract respectively. Group IV received extract and half dose of indomethacin (12.5 mg/kg). The anti-inflammatory property was expressed in terms of percentage inhibition (PI). Statistical analysis was conducted by one-way analysis of variance, following which Tukey’s post hoc test was done for multiple comparisons. P < 0.05 was considered to be a statistically significant value.

Results: Mean paw edema was significantly reduced in both Groups III and IV at all hours of inflammation compared to control. Group III exhibited maximum PI of 27% at 4 h and Group IV exhibited maximum PI of 49% at 6 h of inflammation. The anti-inflammatory activity of Group IV was comparable to Group II.

Conclusion: As a result of the above findings it can be concluded that the ethanolic extract of Aegle leaf has significant anti-inflammatory properties.

Key words: Anti-inflammatory; Aegle marmelos; Indomethacin; Carrageenan