The Anti-inflammatory Activity of CeleryApium graveolensL. (Fam. Umbelliferae)

Aqueous extracts of celery stem have been investigated and found to have significant anti-inflammatory activity against two animal models. Celery contained a phytosterol with some anti-inflammatory activity but it was concluded that the major anti-inflammatory effect was due to unidentified polar substances. Mannitol was also identified in celery but this compound did not reduce carrageenan-induced oedema in the rat although the celery fraction with anti-inflammatory action was active against this model. Mannitol has been reported to reduce inflammation in adjuvant-induced arthritis in the rat. It was concluded that celery stem does possess anti-inflammatory properties which may form a basis for the reputation of the plant as a medicinal treatment for rheumatic disease.