Anti-inflammatory activities of flavonoids of Baphia nitida Lodd. (Leguminosae) on mice and rats

Leaves of Baphia nitida are used in folk medicine for the treatment of inflamed and infected umbilical cords in Nigeria. Phytochemical analysis of the leaves detected tannins, flavonoids and saponin glycosides. Flavonoid rich fraction of the leaf, obtained by a chromatographic process, was formulated into an ointment and tested at 3 dose levels for anti-inflammatory activity against croton oil and heat induced inflammation on ears of mice and depilated backs of rats, respectively. Both provide evidence for the ability of this fraction to inhibit the inflammatory condition on the rodents. The activity was found to be dose related, and the mouse ear model was found to be the more sensitive of the two tests used. Hydrocortisyl cream used as a positive control reference was significantly active in both systems. These results provide a scientific basis for the traditional use of the leaves of Baphia nitida as an anti-inflammatory agent.