Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Sesamum Indicum L. Seed Extracts in Experimental Animal Models

Abstract

Background: Inflammation is a defensive mechanism that protects the body from noxious stimuli. Currently available anti-inflammatory drugs are associated with numerous adverse effects. Hence there is a need for novel anti-inflammatory agent with better safety profile. The current study was conducted to investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic and hexane extracts of Sesamum indicum L. seeds by carrageenan and formalin induced paw edema respectively in Wistar rats. Methods: The animals were divided into 5 groups. Group 1 was given normal saline orally and Group 2 Indomethacin. Groups 3-5 in Carrageenan model were administered ethanolic extract of Sesamum indicum L. at three doses - 150, 200 and 250 mg/kg respectively, whereas in Formalin model, they were given hexane extract at the same doses orally. Anti-inflammatory potential was investigated by Carrageenan and Formalin induced models of inflammation. Results: Sesamum indicum L. ethanolic extract at 250 mg/kg exhibited a significant inhibition of paw edema at 4th hour while hexane extract at all doses caused significant inhibition of paw edema. The percentage inhibition of edema at 4th hour of hexane extract at 250 mg/kg was comparable to Indomethacin. Conclusion: The ethanolic and hexane extracts of Sesamum indicum L. seeds have anti-inflammatory potential. The activity of hexane extract is comparable to indomethacin.