Antiinflammatory and analgesic properties from leaves of Eryngium foetidum L. (Apiaceae)

A decoction from the leaves of Eryngium foetidum L. (Apiaceae), has been evaluated for antiinflammatory and analgesic properties. The dry residue from the decoction of the plant was given orally and it inhibited the carrageenan-induced oedema in rat paw. E. foetidum also showed a topical antiinflammatory effect because it inhibited swelling of mouse ear caused by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA). Myeloperoxidase activity (MPO) was also assessed in the inflamed tissue. When the extract was administered topically, the effect was dose-dependent but it was less active when administered orally. Analgesic action was evaluated with chemical (writhing test) and thermal stimuli (hot plate test). The extract induced a potent inhibition of the number of abdominal writhings provoked by acetic acid as the pain stimulus. However, the response in the hot plate-test was less significant. This preliminary study indicated that the decoction from the leaves of E. foetidum exerts an antiinflammatory effect, when administered orally.