GC-MS analysis, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the chloroform fractions of the leaves of <i>Sterculia tragacantha</i>

Abstract

Sterculia tragacantha Lindl (Family Sterculiaceae) is commonly used in the treatment of boils, diarrhea, dyspepsia, fever, gonorrhea, snake bite, syphilis, and tapeworm in some West African nations. This study is to investigate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of its chloroform isolates since our earlier study has shown that the chloroform leaf extract of the plant is effective in this regard. Using TLC technique, fractions with the same R_f values were pooled together and 12 of such fractions were obtained and were then used for analgesic (writhing test) and anti-inflammatory studies (histamine-induced paw oedema). Indomethacin at 10mg/kg dose serves as reference drug while 25 and 50 mg/kg doses of the isolates were used. GC-MS of the chloroform extract was also carried out. The chloroform extract fractions were more effective at reducing paw oedema than the reference drug. The analgesic effect is about three times more effective than indomethacin. With respect to the gas chromatography-mass spectrum (GC-MS), a total of 12 active compounds were identified by the presence of spikes. Peaks 6, 9, and 12 were the most predominant reflecting the compounds in the chloroform extract. The fractions showed they have a greater efficacy compared to the reference drug, indomethacin. Proper treatment and disposal of the spent oil is therefore necessary to ensure adequate protection of aquatic resources.

Keywords: Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Chlorophorm extract, Sterculia tragacantha