Comparison of antipyretic activities of ethanol and ethyl acetate extracts of Bandotan herb (Ageratum conyzoides L.) in hyperpyrexia mice

Abstract

Background: Fever is one of the body's physiological responses to metabolic stress, characterised by increasing body temperature. Based on its phytochemical content, Bandotan (tropical whiteweed) is an alternative antipyretic therapeutic agent. Flavonoids are potential chemical contents that can be extracted with various solvents, including ethanol and ethyl acetate. So far, research on its antipyretic potential is limited.        Aim: To compare the antipyretic activity of ethanol extract to ethyl acetate extract of Bandotan herb in hyperpyrexia mice.         Methods: Bandotan herb extracts were prepared by maceration, followed by phytochemical screening and determining total flavonoid content. Hyperpyrexia mice were made by induction of baker's yeast. Four hours after injection, mice were treated with Bandotan herb extracts, a dose of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg body weight (BW), then the rectal temperature was observed for four hours.           Results: Both extracts contained flavonoid, alkaloid, saponin, tannin, and steroid, while terpenoid was only found in ethanol preparation. The total flavonoid content of ethyl acetate extract was higher than that of ethanol extract. The best antipyretic activity was a dose of 400 mg/kg BW, but there was no significant difference in the percentage of pyrexia inhibition.            Conclusion: Both extracts have the same ability to be developed as an alternative antipyretic agent.