The Journal of Phytopharmacology, 2020;9(4):242-245 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2020.9405

Research Article

Anti-nociceptive activity of ethanol leaf extract of Smilax anceps in swiss albino mice

Olusayo Aderonke Shorinwa¹ , Precious Nwabueze Uchendu¹

Olusayo Aderonke Shorinwa,Precious Nwabueze Uchendu

1. Department of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 28th May, 2020 / Accepted: 11th July, 2020

Abstract

Smilax anceps is traditionally used in the management of rheumatism. Anti-nociceptive activity of the ethanol extract of the leaf of this plant was investigated. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity (LD50) of the extract were determined. The acetic acid induced writhing and hotplate test were used to evaluate the anti-nociceptive activity in Swiss mice. Fifty animals divided into twenty-five each were used for each assay. Acetylsalicylic acid and tramadol were used as reference drugs while extract was administered at 250, 500 and 1000mg/kg doses via the oral route in writhing and hotplate test respectively. Flavonoids, tannins, saponins and steroids/triterpenoids were found as phytoconstituents. In acetic acid induced writhing test, a statistically significant (P