Abstract:
The aim of this study was to investigate the antiinflammatory
potential of an aqueous leaf extract
(ALE) of /xora coccinea (Rubiaceae) in rats after oral
administration (500, 1000 and 1500mg/kg). This was
done using the carrageenan-induced paw edema (acute
inflammatory model) and cotton pellet granuloma tests
(chronic inflammatory model). In the former test, A L E
signiflcaiitly impaired both early and late phases of the
intlammalory response and also the edema maintained
between the two phases. In the latter test, it significantly
suppressed granuloma formation (only highest dose
tested). Collectively, these data show promising
anii-inflanimatory activity against both acute and
chronic inflammation. A L E showed strong antihistamine
i^nd antioxidant activities that can account for its
-uni-inflammatory potential. In addition, inhibition of
prostaglandins and bradykinins may play a role
