Effect of Artemisia persica Boiss essential on pain caused by chemical and thermal stimuli in mice

Introduction: Artemisia persica is an indigenous plant of Iran that has been traditionally used to relieve neurological and visceral pain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the analgesic effects of Artemisia persica essential oil on pain induced by hot plate and formalin in mice. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, male Balb/c mice were divided into 5 groups including normal saline, Artemisia persica essential oil (50, 75 and 100 mg/kg) and morphine (10 mg/kg). The hot plate test was performed at, 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes after the IP injection of drugs. In the formalin test, 30 minutes after the IP injection of drugs, 20 ml of 4% formalin was injected in the animal's paw and the frequency of paws licking, clopping and lifting were recorded at 0-5 (acute phase) and after injection (acute phase) and 15-30 (chronic phase) minutes. Data were analyzed by SPSS16 software. Results: Injection of Artemisia persica essential oil (75 and 100 mg/kg), 15, 30, 45 and 60 minutes before the hot plate test, significantly decreased pain threshold compared to the control group (p< 0.05) Artemisia persica essential oil at a dose of 100 mg/kg significantly decreased the frequency of paws licking, clopping and lifting at the first and second phase of formalin test (p<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate the effectiveness of Artemisia persica Boiss essential oil in relieving pain caused by chemical and thermal stimuli.