Analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of the hydroalcoholic, polyphenolic and boiled extracts of Stachys lavandulifolia

Abstract

Extracts obtained from the aerial parts of Stachys lavandulifolia (Lamiaceae) are used in Iranian folk medicine as remedies for the treatment of various painful and inflammatory diseases. For evaluation of its probable analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, hydroalcoholic, polyphenolic and boiled extracts of the aerial parts of the herb were prepared and their analgesic effects were studied in mice using formalin, acetic acid-induced writhing and light tail flick tests. Carrageenan test in rats was used for assessment of anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts. Results showed that all the tested extracts were able to reduce the abdominal constrictions in acetic acid-induced writhing test. These extracts also significantly (P<0.001) suppressed both phases of formalin test. In light tail flick test, none of the extracts showed analgesic activity. Only polyphenolic extract at a dose of 2 g/kg when given p.o. or i.p. significantly (P<0.05) inhibited carrageenan-induced paw oedema. Results of the present study confirm the traditional use of Stachys lavandulifolia for the treatment of painful and inflammatory conditions and calls for further investigations to determine the active chemical constituent(s).