Analgesic activities and phytochemistry of aqueous leaf extract of Greenwayodendron suaveolens (Engl. and Diels) Verdc.

Abstract

This study examines the analgesic activities and phytochemical constituents of aqueous leaf extract of Greenwayodendron suaveolens (Engl. and Diels) Verdc. Analgesic activities were evaluated by means of acetic acidinduced writhing reflex and hot plate nociception models. The extract was also screened for presence of secondary metabolites. The plant extract caused 4.21%, 14.00%, 21.10% and 19.10% inhibition to acetic acid induced writhing in a graded dose dependent manner of 100, 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg respectively. It also protected the mice significantly (P<0.05) against thermal induced pain stimulus at a temperature of 55±1 ⁰C. The activity of the extract appears to be mediated by both peripheral and, especially, central routes. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of saponins, phenols and flavonoids, which may be responsible for the activities of the extract. The study validates the therapeutic use of the plant in the management of pain.

Keywords: Analgesic; Phytochemistry; Leaf; Extract; Greenwayodendron suaveolens