Spathodea Campanulata: an Experimental Evaluation of the Analgesic and Anti-inflammatory Properties of a Traditional Remedy

The analgesic and anti-inflammatory potentials of the ethanol leaf extract of Spathodea campanulata , a Nigerian traditional medicinal plant was studied using cold, thermal and chemical-induced pain models, and carrageenan-induced acute inflammation in rats. The acute toxicity and the phytochemical constituents of the extract were also determined. The results showed that the extract (250-1000 mg/kg) significantly (P<0.05) and dose-dependently prolonged the pain reaction times in hot-plate and tail flick pain models, and reduced acetic acid –induced w rithing. The extract demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity against acute inflammation induced by carrageenan. The estimated LD50 of the extract was 4500 mg/kg. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, saponins, anthraquinone glycosides and flavonoids. These findings indicate that the leaf extract of Spathodea campanulata has both analgesic and antiinflammatory properties and could be beneficial in alleviating painful inflammatory conditions.