Topical anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of Laportea decumana (Roxb) Wedd extract cream in rats

Abstract

Laportea decumana is a plant that has traditionally been used to treat pain. This study aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of L. decumana leaf extract (LD extract) topical cream in rats. The anti-inflammatory effects of LD cream at a concentration of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% extract were determined by carrageen-induced acute inflammation on rat hind paws. Hydrocortisone (1%) cream was used as a comparison. The volume of oedema and IL-6 level were analysed following one day of application. Another set of experiments was performed to assess the analgesic activity of LD cream by intraplantar injection of 1% formalin, using 30% methyl salicylate cream as a comparison. Pain indicators, including foot stamping and licking, were observed for 60 minutes. The results showed that rats received the 2% LD cream had reduced carrageenan-induced paw oedema of up to 13.1% at the 3rd hour, and 8.1% at the 4th hour, compared to the placebo (p < 0.05). Rats treated with the 2% LD cream also had the lowest level of IL-6 in their paw tissue, which was comparable to 1% hydrocortisone cream treatment. Similarly, in the analgesic tests, a significant decrease in the amount of foot stamping and licking was seen following the administration of 2% LD cream (p < 0.05). This analgesic effect was similar to that of 30% methyl salicylate cream. In conclusion, cream containing 2% LD extract provided anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in rats, and might be useful for treating pain and inflammation in humans.

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