An anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad extract

Abstract

Purpose: Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad (Lamiaceae) is an endemic plant that widely distributed in the southern parts of Iran. This plant has been used as analgesic and antiseptic among the inhabitants of southern parts of Iran.

Methods: The Satureja khuzistanica hydroalcoholic extract was prepared and its anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects were investigated using the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and formalin test.

Results: A similar anti-inflammatory activity was seen between S. khuzistanica hydroalcoholic extract (150 mg/kg; i.p.) and indomethacin (4 mg/kg; i.p.) in carrageenan test. The extract showed anti-nociceptive activity in a dose-dependent (10-150 mg/kg; i.p.) manner at the second phase of formalin test which was comparable with morphine (3 mg/kg; i.p.).

Conclusion: This study confirms that anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive properties of S. khuzistanica are comparable to those of indomethacin and morphine. Presence of flavonoids, steroids, essential oil, mainly carvacrol and tannin might be responsible for anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activities of this plant.