Evaluation of the Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-haemorrhoidal Activities of Àgbo jẹ̀dí.

Abstract

Herbal medicines find patronage among both rural and urban populaces. Despite the popularity of these herbal remedies, claims of their therapeutic value remain without validation. Àgbo jẹ̀dí (AJ) is an herbal mixture often marketed for the treatment of lower back pain and haemorrhoids. Preliminary phytochemical testing was carried out using standard protocol. Acute toxicity test was done using the OECD No 423 guidelines. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory studies were performed using acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing and formalin-induced paw licking and paw oedema in mice. The effects of AJ on croton oil-induced haemorrhoids in Wistar rats was also tested. Qualitative phytochemical analysis showed presence of tannins, saponins, terpenes, steroids, flavonoids and anthraquinone glycosides. Elemental analysis was positive for K (25.95) > Mg (12.51) > Na (12.04) > Ca (4.01) > Zn (0.3805) ele. No abnormal signs of toxicity or lethality were observed at 20 ml/kg. AJ significantly reduced acetic acid-induced pain by 49.64, 47.45 and 64.23 % at 1.2, 2.4 and 4.8 ml/kg respectively, and diclofenac (10 mg/kg) reduced pain by 88.32%. Àgbo jẹ̀dí also exerted 66.67%, 66.67% and 73.33% reduction of formalin-induced pain at 55 - 60 min post pain induction while diclofenac was 88.00%. Paw volume was decreased by 31.5%, 53.93%, 50.79% at 1.2, 2.4 and 4.8 ml/kg doses respectively. Similarly, diclofenac produced 69.84%. Histological assessment showed mild protective actions by AJ as the intensity of damage to recto-anal tissues were not significantly altered. In conclusion, in-vivo acute toxicity test carried out showed 'àgbo jẹ̀dí' to be relatively safe on acute oral administration. It was observed to exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity but devoid of substantial anti-haemorrhoidal actions.