In vivo and In vitro Assessment of the Therapeutic Properties of Maesa indica

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical profile and multiple therapeutic activities of Maesa indica leaves, including analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidant, anthelmintic, thrombolytic, cytotoxic, and neuropharmacological effects. Study Design, Place, and Duration: The experimental work was conducted in the Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Bangladesh, from November 2021 to October 2022. Methodology: Methanolic extract of dried, powdered M. indica leaves was prepared following authentication. Preliminary phytochemical screening identified key secondary metabolites. In-vitro assays assessed thrombolytic activity (clot lysis test), antioxidant capacity (DPPH assay), cytotoxicity (brine shrimp lethality), and anthelmintic activity (using Pheretima posthuma). In vivo studies in Swiss albino mice evaluated analgesic (acetic acid-induced writhing), antipyretic (Brewer’s yeast-induced pyrexia), and neuropharmacological activities (hole cross, elevated plus maze, and hole-board tests). Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, phenols, and saponins. The extract showed 42.09% clot lysis, IC₅₀ of 91.15 µg/mL (antioxidant), and LC₅₀ of 707.95 µg/mL (cytotoxicity). It inhibited writhing by 53.4% at 400 mg/kg and reduced fever by 90.17% at 4 hours. Neuropharmacological tests indicated anxiolytic effects, and significant anthelmintic activity was observed at higher doses. Conclusion: M. indica exhibits diverse bioactivities, supporting its traditional medicinal use. It holds promise for development into novel therapeutic agents. Further studies on active compound isolation are warranted.