Study on anti-inflammatory effect of aqueous leaf extract of Psychotria rubra (Lour.) Poir, Rubiaceae

Abstract

Introduction: In Vietnam, Lau do (Psychotria rubra) is widely used as a medicinal plant for curing diseases, but studies on this plant are still limited. Therefore, this study was conducted for the purpose of determining and evaluating the anti-inflammatory effect of Psychotria rubra’s leaf. Methods: The aqueous leaf extract of Psychotria rubra was studied for its anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice. The paw volume was measured plethysmometrically at 0h, 3h, 6h, 24h, 48 h, 72h, 96h, 120h, 144h after injection. Diclofenac 5mg/kg was used as the control in this experiment. Results and Discussion: The aqueous leaf extract of Psychotria rubra significantly (P < 0,05) reduced carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice at both dose 2,50 g/kg and 1,25 g/kg. Conclusion: Psychotria rubra’s leaf has anti-inflammatory effect in research doses.