In Vivo Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Bridelia Micrantha (Hochst.) Baill. Stem Bark and Ganoderma Applanatum (Pers.) Pat. Extracts

Abstract

Siangu Belinda Nasike, Veronica M Masila, Mwonjoria Kingori John, Njue Wilson Mbiti, Swaleh Sauda and Henry Mwangi

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Inflammation is a natural defense response to injury or infection; however, persistent inflammation is associated with the development of chronic diseases. In traditional medicine, numerous plant and fungal species are used for the management of inflammatory conditions, although many of these remedies lack sufficient scientific validation. Bridelia micrantha and Ganoderma applanatum are traditionally used in various communities for the treatment of pain, swelling, and inflammation-related disorders.

Aim of the Study: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of Bridelia micrantha stem bark and Ganoderma applanatum extracts using an in vivo experimental model.

Materials and Methods: The anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts was evaluated in Swiss albino mice using the formalin-induced paw edema model. B. micrantha extract was administered at doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, while G. applanatum extract was tested at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. Paw edema was measured at 60, 120, 180, and 240 minutes following formalin injection. Diclofenac sodium was used as the reference drug.

Results: All doses of B. micrantha significantly reduced paw edema compared to the negative control (p < 0.05), with anti-inflammatory effects becoming more pronounced from the second to the fourth hour. The 50 mg/kg dose exhibited the highest activity, surpassing diclofenac at 180 minutes. G. applanatum extracts significantly inhibited paw edema at 60 and 180 minutes across all tested doses (p < 0.05), while no significant effects were observed at 120 and 240 minutes (p > 0.05). A non-linear dose-response relationship was observed, with the 50 mg/kg dose at 180 minutes showing greater efficacy than diclofenac, whereas the 100 mg/kg dose demonstrated inconsistent activity.

Conclusions: Both Bridelia micrantha and Ganoderma applanatum exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity, with optimal effects observed at specific doses rather than in a dose-dependent manner. These findings support their traditional use in the management of inflammatory conditions and suggest that the observed activity may be attributed to bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. Further studies are warranted to elucidate their pharmacokinetics and underlying mechanisms of action.

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