An evaluation of the anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and antinociceptive effects of Ficus cxaspcrata (Vahl) leaf extract

The hydro alcoholic leaf extract of Ficus exasperata (Vahl) (family Moraceae) (FEE) was evaluated for its antinociceplive, anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic properties in animal models. The leaf extract (10-300 mg kg ^-1) showed a dose-dependent anti- inflammatory activity in carrageenan-induced foot oedema in chicks, with an IC₅₀ of 46.05 ± 12.3 mg kg^-1 which was approximately 3.5 times less potent than diclofenac (1C₅₀:13.0l±5.28 mg kg^-1) and about 130 times less potent than dexamethasone (0.36±0.45mg kg^-1). In the formalin test the extract showed dose dependent antinociceptive effects in both phases of the formalin test. The role of adenosinergic and opioidergic involvement in the antinociceptive effects was also investigated. While theophylline, a non-selective adenosine receptor antagonist, completely inhibited the antinociceptive effect of the extract, naloxone, an opioid antagonist had very liffle effect. The extract also showed weak activity in pyrexia induced by baker's yeast. These results suggest anlinociceptive as well as anti-inflammatory activities a confirmation of its traditional use. Also, the results show the involvement of adenosinergic pathway in the antinociceptive effects of FEE.