Analgesic, antipyretic and ulcerogenic activity of Nyctanthes arbor tristis leaf extract

The leaves of Nyctanthes arbor tristis, besides being used in the treatment of sciatica and arthritis, are advocated for various kinds of fevers and painful conditions by the Ayurvedic physicians. In the present study, the water-soluble portion of an ethanol extract of the leaves was screened for analgesic, antipyretic and ulcerogenic activities. The extract exhibited significant aspirin-like antinociceptive activity but failed to produce morphine-like analgesia. It was also found to possess antipyretic activity against brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia in rats. The extract also produced gastric ulcers following oral administration for six consecutive days in rats. Results of the present study tend to substantiate the use of this plant in fevers and painful conditions by Ayurvedic physicians.