Analgesic and Anti-Arthritic Effect of Enicostemma littorale Blume

Enicostemma littorale (Blume), the folk medicine is used for rheumatic pain and it was selected for scientific validation. The 85% methanolic extract obtained from the whole plant of Enicostemma littorale has been assessed for analgesic and anti-inflammatory activity. The analgesic activity has been evaluated by hot plate and tail immersion method and the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities are evaluated by Complete Freund’s adjuvant induced arthritic model. The results of the evaluation of analgesic activity in hot plate and tail immersion method revealed that the extract exhibits significant activity at 150 mg/kg body weight and the effect is found to increase dose dependently. In Freund’s adjuvant induced arthritis, Enicostemma littorale is found to decrease the paw volume (15.81%). Significant protection is also observed by elevating antioxidant enzymes. In conclusion, the 85% methanolic extract of Enicostemma littorale possesses significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities in Freund’s adjuvant induced arthritic model in rats.