Assessment of <i>In vitro</i> antioxidant and Analgesic activity of Ethyl acetate fraction of <i>Urena Lobata</i> leaves

Abstract

Background: The primary aim of this study is to identify the most active fraction from Urena lobata leaves and subsequently evaluate the analgesic and antioxidant accomplishments of the identified potent extract. The focus is on determining the fraction with the highest efficacy for potential therapeutic applications. Methods: U. lobata leaves were consecutively extracted with solvents like n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and methanol. The concentrated fractions underwent initial phytochemical screening. The fraction exhibiting the highest activity, as determined by the carrageenan model, was further evaluated for its analgesic potential through the hot plate and acetic acid-induced writhing methods. In-vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated through DPPH and FRAP assays. Results: The preliminary phytochemical analysis of U. lobata leaf fractions exposed the presence of steroids, triterpenes, alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, and flavonoids. In the carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model, the ethyl acetate fraction of U. lobata leaf (ULEAF) demonstrated the highest anti-inflammatory effects, comparable to the standard drug Diclofenac sodium. Evaluation of analgesic potential using the hot-plate method and acetic acid-induced writhing test showed dose-dependent efficacy, with 500 mg/kg ULEAF exhibiting effects similar to ibuprofen. In vitro, antioxidant assays indicated potent radical scavenging and reducing power in the ethyl acetate fraction. Conclusion: In conclusion, U. lobata leaf fractions exhibited potent anti-inflammatory properties, with the ethyl acetate fraction demonstrating notable analgesic and antioxidant activity. These findings support the plant’s therapeutic potential for further exploration in pharmaceutical development.