Analgesic Properties of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Alchornea cordifolia (Christmas Bush) on Wistar Rats

Abstract

Disease conditions leading to pain are major healthcare problem worldwide. Incidences of pain related disorders have been on the increase worldwide. Although, several synthetic agents are available in treatment of these disorders, long-term usage has been reported to potentially lead to undesired effect. Hence Analgesic effects of aqueous leaf extract of Alchornea cordifolia on wistar rats were investigated. Twenty wistar rats of both genders weighing between 110-178 g were utilized. Acetic acid was used for induction of pain. The rats were grouped into five groups of 4 per group in each study. Groups 3, 4 and 5 received 400, 800 mg/kg b.w of aqueous extract and reference drug respectively after induction. Groups 1 and 2 served as normal and negative controls. Rats were sacrificed and blood samples collected for hematological and biochemical analyses. Phytochemical screening of the plant revealed the presence of alkaloid, phenolic compounds, Tannins and Quinine. The result showed significant increase (p≤ 0.05) in paw size, and number of writhing in group 2 and non-significant reduction (p ≥ 0.05) in group 4 were seen when contrasted to group 1 and 2 respectively. Highest pain inhibition (16%) was seen in group 4. Significant (p≤0.05) increase in C-reactive protein and nitric oxide concentrations were observed in groups 3 and 4 when contrasted to group 2 in the study. Non-significant differences in all hematological parameters in all treated groups were observed when compared to group 2. Aqueous leaf extract of Alchornae cordifolia displayed an analgesic effect.