The potential of cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica) ethanol extract in inhibiting nitric oxide secretion in fibroblast

Background: Imperata cylindrica or cogon grass is a kind of sharp-leaved grass that often becomes a weed on agricultural land. In traditional medicine, I. cylindrica is often used as a fever-lowering and anti-inflammatory drug. Research has shown that I. cylindrica can provide anti-inflammatory effects. Nitric oxide (NO) is a mediator produced in various mammalian cells and can be used as an inflammatory marker. Objective: To evaluate whether the ethanol extract of I. cylindrica can affect the ability of fibroblasts to secrete NO. Methods: Fibroblasts were stimulated using Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide and treated with the ethanol extract of I. cylindrica at concentrations of 50, 80, 160, 320, and 640 part per million, and then the Griess test was performed. Results: There was a significant difference between the ethanol extract of I. cylindrica (640 part per million) and the negative control group. Conclusion: The ethanol extract of I. cylindrica (L.) Raeusch at a concentration of 640 part per million has the effect of lowering NO secretion in fibroblasts.