Antinociceptive Action of the Seeds of Carica Papaya Linn Extracted in Aqueous Medium in Mice

Abstract

To study the antinociceptive action of the seeds of carica papaya linn extracted in aqueous medium (CPE) in mice. The Carica Papaya aqueous seed extract was evaluated for its antinociceptive effect in mice by producing writhing using acetic acid. One hour after administration of mice with the test, control and the standard drugs the mice were given 0.2 ml of acetic acid (3%) solution intraperitoneally to produce writhing. The number of constrictions of abdominal muscles induced along with extending and jerking of the hind limb were counted from 5 to 15 minutes. The response of the mice treated with the carica papaya aqueous seed extract and that of the standard drug treated groups were compared with those of the mice in the control group. Percentage inhibition of the writhing movements in mice was considered as an index of analgesic effect. The Carica Papaya aqueous seed extract reduced the number of writhing in test group 5 (CPE 400 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.05) in comparison to the control group. Percentage inhibition in test group 5 (60.8%) was comparable to the percentage inhibition in the standard drug (diclofenac) group (70.3%). The Carica Papaya aqueous seed extract showed significant antinociceptive effect in mice.