Evaluation of the Anti-Pyretic Properties of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Luffa Cylindrica in Baker’s Yeast-Induced Pyrexia in Wistar Rats

Fever is a common clinical symptom of many infectious and inflammatory conditions, often managed with synthetic antipyretics that pose safety concerns in vulnerable populations. This study investigated the anti-pyretic potential of aqueous leaf extract of Luffa cylindrica using Baker’s yeast-induced pyrexia model in Wistar rats. Twenty (20) rats were divided into five groups (n=4). Group 1 animals were treated with 0.5 ml distilled water as the normal control. Group 2 were treated with 0.4% Baker’s yeast only as the negative control. Group 3 were treated with 0.4% yeast and 800 mg/kg Luffa cylindrica extract. Group 4 were treated with 0.4% yeast and 1600 mg/kg Luffa cylindrica extract. Group 5 were treated with 0.4% yeast and 500 mg/kg paracetamol considered as positive control. Increased rectal temperatures at 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours after administration of treatments in Baker’s yeast-induced pyrexia rat model was measured with thermometer. Treatment with extract doses of 800 mg/kg and 1600 mg/kg were compared to paracetamol (500 mg/kg) and a significance decrease (p<0.05) was observed in the rectal temperatures, serum biomarkers, interleukin-6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO), and C-reactive protein (CRP) and hematological parameters. The extract significantly reduced fever, pro-inflammatory markers and hematological parameters in a dose-dependent manner, supporting its traditional use and potential as a safe natural antipyretic.