Studies on the anti-inflammatory and related pharmacological properties ofthe aqueous extract of Bridelia ferruginea stem bark

The anti-inflammatory profile of the aqueous extract of Bridelia ferruginea stem bark was investigated using both in vivo and in vitro models. The ext ract exhibited strong topical anti-inflammatory effect shown as inhibition of croton oil-induced ear oedema in mice, and reduced hind-paw swelling and growth retardation in the adjuvant-induced arthritis model in rats, follow ing oral administration at 10, 20, 40 or 80 mg/kg. The extract (10-80 mg/kg , p.o.) caused an inhibition of increase in vascular permeability in both c yclophosphamide-induced haemorrhagic cystitis and acetic acid-induced vascu lar permeability in rats and mice, respectively. B. ferruginea produced sta bilization of erythrocytes exposed to heat and stress-induced lysis. Antipy retic and analgesic properties of the extract were also observed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.