Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Rubia cordifolia Roots

Abstract

Objective: To study the anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic and gastrolesive properties of petroleum ether extract of Rubia cordifolia roots. Materials and methods: Bioassay guided separation of petroleum ether extract was carried out to obtain a compound possessing anti-inflammatory activity. An active triterpene responsible for the anti-inflammatory activity was separated. The compound exhibited anti-inflammatory activity in the carrageenan-induced edema, cotton pellet granuloma and adjuvant-induced arthritis. The analgesic activity was studied using acetic acid induced writhing and radiant heat analgesiometer and antipyretic activity was assessed in yeast-induced hyperpyrexia in rats. The ulcerogenic potential was studied using pyloric ligated rats. Results: The compound possesses anti inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activity and strong gastrolesive properties. Conclusion: The study justifies the use of Rubia cordifolia in the treatment of inflammation, pain and fever.