Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of Hibiscus cannabinus.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of hibiscus cannabinus (l) seed extract
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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S. R. Chaudhari, V. R. Patil, T. A. Deshmukh,
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of hibiscus cannabinus (l) seed extract
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study focuses on the investigation of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the petroleum ether extract obtained from the seeds of Hibiscus cannabinus (L.), commonly known as Kenaf. Given the global emphasis on herbal remedies due to the side effects associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), this research sought to provide scientific evidence for the folkloric use of this plant in treating pain and inflammation. The study outlines the plant's traditional medicinal applications and its diverse phytochemical composition, which may contribute to its therapeutic effects.
Antinociceptive Activity
The petroleum ether extract of Hibiscus cannabinus exhibited significant antinociceptive activity across different animal models. The study employed the writhing test, tail immersion test, and hot plate method to assess the analgesic effects of the extract. In particular, the extract at higher doses (200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg) demonstrated marked reductions in writhing initiation and duration in response to acetic acid, indicating potent analgesic effects. Moreover, the tail immersion and hot plate tests revealed that the analgesic action may be mediated through central pathways, potentially involving μ-opioid receptors, underscoring the extract's ability to alleviate pain.
Anti-inflammatory Activity
The anti-inflammatory properties of the petroleum ether extract were evaluated using several models, including carrageenan, serotonin, and histamine-induced paw edema tests. The extract significantly reduced paw swelling in these models, with the maximum inhibition observed at 400 mg/kg, demonstrating its efficacy in mitigating acute inflammatory responses. The results suggest that Hibiscus cannabinus may act against multiple mediators of inflammation, thereby offering therapeutic benefits in treating inflammatory disorders. Such findings reinforce the plant's traditional uses in herbal medicine.
Safety and Phytochemical Composition
The study also addressed safety concerns by conducting acute toxicity tests, which indicated that the extract was safe up to a dose of 4000 mg/kg, with no mortality recorded. Preliminary phytochemical screenings revealed the presence of active compounds such as alkaloids, saponins, tannins, and sterols, which may contribute to its pharmacological effects. The identification of these phytoconstituents lays the groundwork for further research into the specific compounds responsible for the observed antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities.
Conclusion
Overall, the findings of this study validate traditional claims regarding the medicinal use of Hibiscus cannabinus for pain and inflammation. The petroleum ether extract demonstrated significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in various animal models, supporting its potential as an alternative therapeutic agent. Future studies are encouraged to further explore the extraction of active constituents and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, which could lead to the development of new herbal medications that mitigate the side effects associated with conventional NSAIDs.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the main findings of the Hibiscus cannabinus study?
The study found that the petroleum ether extract of Hibiscus cannabinus seeds demonstrated significant antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in various animal models, suggesting its potential as a natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory agent.
How was the Hibiscus cannabinus seed extract prepared for testing?
The seeds were dried, ground, and subjected to successive extraction with petroleum ether using a soxhlet extractor until the solvent became clear. The extract was then concentrated and dried to yield the final extract.
What animal models were used for testing the extract's efficacy?
The antinociceptive effect was tested in writhing, tail immersion, and hot plate models, while the anti-inflammatory activity was assessed using carrageenan, serotonin, and histamine-induced paw edema in rats.
What active components were detected in the Hibiscus cannabinus extract?
Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, saponins, tannins, sterols, and glycosides in the petroleum ether extract, indicating its potential medicinal properties.
How did the extract perform compared to standard drugs in the study?
The extract showed significant reduction in writhings and paw edema comparable to standard drugs like indomethacin and diclofenac sodium, especially at higher doses, indicating strong analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
What dose of Hibiscus cannabinus extract was considered safe in the study?
The extract was found to be safe at all tested doses, up to 4000 mg/kg in mice, with no reported fatalities, leading to the selection of 400 mg/kg as the therapeutic dose for further studies.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of Hibiscus cannabinus.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Animal:
The word 'Animal' relates to the living organisms, particularly those used in scientific research. In the context of the study, it specifically refers to the Wistar albino rats and Swiss albino mice utilized for testing the effects of the Hibiscus cannabinus seed extract on pain and inflammation. Animal models offer insights into biological processes and potential therapeutic effects, allowing researchers to evaluate the safety and efficacy of natural substances before moving to human trials.
2) Table:
The term 'Table' refers to the structured format used to present data in the document. Tables are vital in scientific literature as they summarize and clarify experimental findings, making it easier for readers to interpret results related to the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the Hibiscus cannabinus extract across different tests. They facilitate comparisons of numerical data and can highlight significant differences among treatment groups, improving the comprehension of complex information.
3) Edema (Oedema):
'Edema' is closely related to 'oedema' and signifies the swelling caused by fluid accumulation in tissues. The research focused on measuring edema in response to various inflammatory agents, establishing a connection between the plant extract's effectiveness and its impact on inflammatory conditions, reinforcing the extract's potential as a natural remedy for swelling.
4) Water:
The term 'Water' is essential as it serves as the primary solvent in biological systems and experimental procedures. In the study, distilled water was used as a vehicle for administering the extract and as a control for comparison. It underscores the significance of hydration in experimentation and the necessity for proper solubilization of compounds for accurate dosing in animal research.
5) Study (Studying):
'Study' denotes the systematic investigation undertaken to explore the pharmacological properties of Hibiscus cannabinus. In scientific research, a study is designed to answer specific questions, test hypotheses, and gather empirical data. This particular study focused on assessing antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to the existing body of knowledge on herbal medicines and traditional remedies.
6) Activity:
The word 'Activity' relates to the functional effects observed during the experiments, specifically the physiological effects of the Hibiscus cannabinus extract on pain and inflammation. The term encompasses the antinociceptive (pain-relieving) and anti-inflammatory activities noted in various tests, highlighting the extract's potential as an alternative therapeutic agent based on traditional medical claims.
7) India:
'India' indicates the geographical location where the research was conducted and where Hibiscus cannabinus is commonly found and utilized in traditional medicine. It contextualizes the study within its cultural origins, emphasizing the relevance of local flora in pharmacognosy and the need for scientific validation of indigenous medicinal practices for broader applicability.
8) Drug:
The term 'Drug' pertains to any substance utilized for therapeutic benefits. In this context, it specifically refers to the Hibiscus cannabinus seed extract being tested. The research aims to evaluate its potential as a new herbal drug for treating inflammation and pain, contributing to the development of safer alternatives to synthetic pharmaceuticals.
9) Inflammation:
'Inflammation' is a biological response to harmful stimuli, characterized by redness, swelling, and pain. The study delves into inflammation's complex mechanisms and evaluates how Hibiscus cannabinus extract might modulate these processes. Understanding inflammation is crucial in pharmacology, as it's a common underlying factor in various diseases and discomforts, influencing therapeutics.
10) Hind:
The word 'Hind' typically refers to the back or posterior part of an organism. In this study, it specifically denotes the hind limbs of the animal subjects that were monitored during pain response tests such as the writhing test or tail immersion test. Understanding which body parts are affected by analgesic or inflammatory responses is key to assessing treatment efficacy.
11) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
'Maharashtra' identifies the Indian state where the research was conducted and where the plant specimens were collected. The regional context is significant in botanical research, as it reflects the local uses of plants in traditional medicine, their availability, and potential biodiversity, all of which are important for developing localized medicinal practices.
12) Phytochemical:
The term 'Phytochemical' refers to bioactive compounds derived from plants that are studied for their medicinal properties. In this research, phytochemical screening of Hibiscus cannabinus seeds aimed at identifying the active components responsible for the observed anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, thus underscoring the importance of understanding plant chemistry for drug discovery.
13) Medicine:
'Medicine' relates to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The study operates within this domain, aiming to identify potential herbal remedies. The exploration of Hibiscus cannabinus contributes to the integration of traditional knowledge into modern medical practices and enhances the understanding of natural products in developing therapeutic strategies.
14) Education:
'Education' in this context refers to the dissemination of knowledge regarding pharmacological effects and traditional uses of plants like Hibiscus cannabinus. Research studies contribute to educational efforts by providing evidence-based information that can enhance curriculum development in pharmacognosy, botany, and herbal medicine, promoting informed use of plant-derived substances.
15) Disease:
The word 'Disease' indicates pathological conditions that may be alleviated by treatments explored in this study, specifically focusing on inflammatory diseases. By demonstrating the potential of Hibiscus cannabinus to mitigate pain and inflammation, the research provides insights into possible interventions for managing various disease states associated with these symptoms.
16) Pain:
'Pain' is a complex sensation and a major reason for seeking medical care. This study sought to investigate the analgesic properties of the Hibiscus cannabinus seed extract against induced pain in animal models. Understanding pain mechanisms and effective management strategies is crucial for developing novel therapeutic approaches that can improve quality of life.
17) Dish (Dis):
The term 'Dish' typically refers to a shallow, flat container used for holding substances, often in laboratory experiments. In this study, the dish was utilized in the extraction processes to obtain the dried extract from the Hibiscus cannabinus seeds. Proper laboratory equipment is crucial to ensure accurate and reproducible research outcomes.
18) Pharmacological:
'Pharmacological' pertains to the study of drug action and the principles behind drug therapy. This study evaluates the pharmacological effects of Hibiscus cannabinus, determining its therapeutic potential based on its antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties. Understanding these effects guides future research and application in clinical settings.
19) Science (Scientific):
'Scientific' references the rigorous methodologies employed in research to gather empirical evidence about the effects of Hibiscus cannabinus. The study adheres to scientific standards which require systematic observation, experimentation, and validation of results to build a foundation for further exploration into the medicinal uses of plant-based therapies.
20) Valley:
'Valley' often refers to a geographical area characterized by a particular landscape. In this study, 'Tapi Valley' marks the specific region where the Hibiscus cannabinus seeds were gathered. Such a designation adds context regarding the biodiversity and traditional usage of plants in that particular ecological region which informs the research.
21) Tapi:
'Tapi' denotes the geographical region, specifically the Tapi Valley, known for its unique flora. This significance is crucial as environmental factors influence the phytochemical composition of the plant species studied. Recognizing regional aspects contributes to understanding local plant utilization in traditional medicine, essential for ethnopharmacological studies.
22) Pune:
'Pune' identifies the city where plant material authentication took place, underscoring the importance of collaboration between local institutions and researchers. This collaboration can ensure the credibility of the study and provides a framework for future research endeavors focused on exploring the medicinal properties of indigenous plants.
23) Male:
The term 'Male' refers to the gender of animal subjects in the study, specifically male Wistar albino rats and Swiss albino mice. Gender-specific responses to drugs can be significant in pharmacological research, potentially affecting the efficacy and safety profiles of treatments, highlighting the necessity for gender consideration in research design.
24) Animal disease:
'Animal disease' reflects health conditions or disorders affecting non-human species. In this study, the focus on pain and inflammation highlights the relevance of naturally derived treatments for managing animal diseases as well as human ones. Findings could contribute to veterinary pharmacology and improve treatment protocols for companion and agricultural animals.
25) Discussion:
'Discussion' refers to the section where researchers interpret their results and consider their implications. In scientific literature, this section provides insights into the significance of findings in relation to existing knowledge, addresses limitations, and suggests directions for future research, forming an essential component for understanding the relevance and applications of the study results.
26) Inference:
'Inference' relates to the conclusions drawn from data and analysis in scientific research. The inferences made in this study regarding the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of Hibiscus cannabinus are critical in understanding its pharmacological potential and can guide future research toward uncovering active compounds and therapeutic mechanisms.
27) Flavonoid:
'Flavonoid' is a class of plant secondary metabolites known for their potential health benefits. While this study primarily reports the presence of other phytochemicals, understanding flavonoids is significant as they may contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects observed. Their role in plant-based therapies is an ongoing area of research in pharmacology.
28) Toxicity:
'Toxicity' represents the degree to which a substance can harm organisms. In the context of this study, evaluating the toxicity of Hibiscus cannabinus extract is crucial to ensure safety for potential therapeutic applications. The study found no mortality in doses used, emphasizing the importance of assessing safety along with efficacy in drug development.
29) Relative:
'Relative' generally refers to comparisons made between different groups or outcomes in research. The term implies that the study findings contribute to a broader understanding of the relationship between the tested extract's effects and various measures of pain or inflammation, although it signifies the need for relative assessments in pharmacological efficacy.
30) Jalgaon:
'Jalgaon' signifies the specific district in Maharashtra, India, where the Hibiscus cannabinus seeds were collected. Geographic localization is essential for botanical studies since it can influence the chemical composition and therapeutic properties of plant materials. Recognition of local efficacy based on environmental factors is valuable for traditional medicine validation.
31) Surface:
'Surface' typically refers to the outer layer of an object. In experimental contexts, it may refer to the area where interactions, such as paw placement during tests, occur. Understanding surface interactions is important for evaluating responses in pain models, guiding researchers to formulate better experimental designs based on physiological responses.
32) Ambadi:
'Ambadi' is one of the local names for Hibiscus cannabinus in India. Recognizing local nomenclature is crucial in ethnobotany, as it connects regional knowledge with scientific inquiry. It highlights the plant's significance in traditional medicine among communities, supporting the importance of incorporating local wisdom into pharmacological research for enhanced therapeutic insights.
33) Repair:
'Repair' signifies the biological process whereby the body restores affected tissues post-injury or inflammation. In pharmacology, understanding repair mechanisms is integral to developing treatments that promote healing. The study indirectly addresses repair processes by evaluating how Hibiscus cannabinus extract affects inflammatory responses, revealing therapeutic potential in aiding recovery.
34) Kappa:
'Kappa' refers to one of the subtypes of opioid receptors in the nervous system. Understanding kappa receptors is critical in analgesic research, as they play a role in pain modulation. Evaluating the interaction of Hibiscus cannabinus extract with kappa receptors aids in understanding its mechanism of action and therapeutic effectiveness against pain.
35) Patil:
'Patil' is a surname of one of the authors involved in the study. Acknowledging the contributions of researchers is vital for establishing credibility and accountability in scientific literature. It highlights the collaborative nature of research and the importance of intellectual contributions in advancing knowledge in pharmacognosy and clinical practice.
36) Hemp:
'Hemp' refers to the plant species from which Hibiscus cannabinus is derived, which is often cultivated for its fibers. The name reflects the cultural significance and diverse uses of hemp beyond medicinal applications, emphasizing the economic and ecological value of the plant in various industries, including textiles and construction.
37) Diet:
'Diet' pertains to the types of food consumed by the animals during the study. Proper dietary management in research is critical as it influences physiological responses and overall health of experimental subjects. Standardizing diet across experimental groups contributes to reliability in research outcomes, ensuring that observed effects are due to the treatments administered.
38) Cage:
'Cage' refers to the housing provided for animal subjects in experiments. The design of the cage environment impacts animal welfare, which is a cornerstone of ethical research. A well-ventilated and appropriately sized cage promotes the health and behavior of experimental animals, ensuring the reliability and validity of the research findings.