Non-narcotic orally effective, centrally acting analgesic from an Ayurvedic drug

Embelin, a p-quinone, is derived from Embelia ribes Burm. The analgesic effect of potassium embelate has been studied in rats and mice. The test drug was found to be effective by oral, i.m. and i.c.v. routes and the results compared well with morphine. Although potassium embelate acts centrally to produce analgesia, its effect is not antagonized by naloxone indicating a different central site of action. There is no precipitation of abstinence syndrome as observed with morphine. Peripheral site of action of the drug is ruled out as it lacks any demonstrable anti-inflammatory action. It can be concluded that high oral efficacy and non-narcotic properties of the test drug make it more acceptable than morphine. In addition, lack of any adverse effects, high therapeutic index and absence of abstinence syndrome confers a long term safety on potassium embelate for use as an analgesic.