Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Methanolic Leaf Extract of Kigelia Africana (Lam.) Benth and Stem Bark Extract of Acacia Hockii De Wild in Mice

Abstract

Inflammation causes discomfort, suffering and lower productivity of the victims. Synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs are not readily available and have adverse side effects. Alternative herbal medicines possess bioactive compounds that are safer and efficient in the management of various diseases and disorders. The present study evaluated for the anti-inflammatory activity of methanolic extracts of Kigelia africana and Acacia hockii in mice to scientifically validate their traditional use among the Embu and Mbeere communities in Kenya. The plant samples were collected with the help of local herbalists in Embu County, Kenya and transported to Kenyatta University biochemistry and biotechnology laboratories for cleaning, air drying, milling, and extraction. Swiss albino mice of either sex were randomly divided into six groups of 5 animals each; normal control, negative control, positive control and three experimental groups. The anti-inflammatory activity was tested using carrageenan-induced hind paw edema method. The anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts was compared to reference drug diclofenac. The leaf extract of K. africana reduced inflamed hind paw diameter of mice by between 0.21%- 4.98% while the stem bark extract of A. hockii reduced inflamed hind paw diameter by between 0.6%-5.38%. The diclofenac reduced inflamed hind paw diameter by between 1.11%-4.9%. The qualitative phytochemical screening indicated the presence of saponins, flavonoid, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, and cardiac glycosides. The present study demonstrated potent antiinflammatory activities of methanolic extracts of K. africana and A. hockii in a dose-dependent manner, which supports their traditional use. The present study, therefore, recommends the ethnomedicinal use of K. africana and A. hockii in the management of inflammation.