Phytochemical screening and anti-inflammatory actions of Alangium salviifolium root extract

Alangium salviifolium root was screened for phytochemical and anti-inflammatory properties. The percentage inhibition of carrageenan induced paw oedema was studied in rats. Alangium salvifolium gave maximum extractive values with Ethanol and the Loss on Drying value, total ash value and acid-insoluble ash and water soluble ash values were within limits. The extract gave positive tests for phytosterols, triterpenes, flavonoids, carbohydrates and alkaloids. The extract was free from glycosides, saponins, tannins, proteins and amino acids. In acute toxicity studies, Alangium salviifolium root extract was found to be safe up to 3000 mg kg⁻¹, p.o. in the albino rats. The Alangium salviifolium root gave significant per cent inhibition of the maximal paw oedema and very highly significant per cent inhibition of total paw oedema during 6 h. This study revealed that Alangium salviifolium root has good anti-inflammatory actions when compared with Diclofenac sodium.