Phytochemical screening and anti-inflammatory properties of Algerian Hertia cheirifolia methanol extract.

ABSTRACT

CONTEXT Hertia cheirifolia L. (Asteraceae) is traditionally used in Northern Africa to treat various inflammatory infections. However, few studies on this plant have been reported. OBJECTIVE: The anti-inflammatory activity of methanol extract of H. cheirifolia leaves was investigated using different experimental models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Phytochemical analysis was performed to determine phenolic compounds. Acute toxicity of the extract (2000 mg/kg) was examined in Swiss albino mice for 14 days, before croton oil-induced ear oedema in mice, carrageenan-induced paw oedema in Swiss albino rats, cotton pellet-induced granuloma in rats and carrageenan-induced air pouch in mice were conducted. The IL-1ß and TNF-α release from concanavalin A-stimulated monocytes was measured by ELISA. RESULTS: Methanol extract of H. cheirifolia is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids. Cinnamic acid and rutin represent the major constituents. Methanol extract up to 2000 mg/kg did not produce any toxic effects. Topical application of 2 mg/ear of the extract produced 78.7% of inhibition on ear swilling. Oral pre-treatment of rats with 200 and 400 mg/kg of the extract inhibited paw oedema by 70% and 89%, respectively. At 200 mg/kg, granuloma dry and wet weights were reduced by 41.85% and 61.72%, respectively. Moreover, the treatment with methanol extract at 1 mg/kg exerted 62.7% of inhibition on leucocytes migrated into the ear pouch. TNF-α and IL-1ß release was reduced by 69% and 78%, respectively, with 1 µg/mL of the extract. CONCLUSION: Methanol extract of H. cheirifolia possesses a strong anti-inflammatory activity and may be considered an interesting source of effective anti-inflammatory compounds.