Mechanisms of action of the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of leaf extract of Vernonia amygdalina

BACKGROUND: is well known as a medicinal plant in folk medicine as antidiabetic, anthelmintic, antimalarial, laxative/purgative, and expectorant among others. AIM: . MATERIALS AND METHODS: leaf (MEVA) was evaluated for antinociceptive effect and possible mechanisms of action in the presence of naloxone (1 mg/kg), atropine (2 mg/kg), and prazosin (1 mg/kg) using acetic acid writhing test in mice. The anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated in carrageenan hind paw edema and carrageenan air pouch models. Protein concentration, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assays were carried out for its antioxidative activities in inflammation. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to assess the level of inflammation. RESULTS: < 0.05) reduced infiltrating leukocytes, protein concentration and MDA levels, while GSH and SOD were unaffected. The histological study showed a reduction in the infiltration of inflammatory cells in MEVA-treated groups. CONCLUSION: showed antinociceptive activity and anti-inflammatory effect via reductions of leukocyte migration and lipid peroxidation.