Analgesic Activity of Aqueous Extract of Curcuma Amada (Mango - Ginger) in Male Albino Wistar Rats

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Mango ginger (Curcuma amada Roxb.) has morphological resemblance with ginger, but imparts mango flavour. According to Ayurveda and Unani medicinal systems, the biological activities include antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiallergic, CNS depressant and analgesic activity. Hence curcuma amada aqueous extract for analgesic activity was evaluated in pain animal models. Pain is a most common complaint of many medical conditions, and pain control is one of the most important therapeutic priorities. Curcuma Amada suppresses the inflammatory mediators associated with pain. However there is no scientific data suggestive of its analgesic activity. Hence this study was carried out to evaluate its role in central and peripheral models of pain. OBJECTIVE: To Evaluate rhizomes of Curcuma Amada for analgesic activity in male albino wistar rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Albino rats, the proven models for analgesic studies. They were obtained from the animal house of DR.B. R. Ambedkar Medical College. Animals were maintained as per CPCSEA guidelines. The aqueous extract of curcuma amada was used.4x2 groups of 6 Rats were used to ensure that results obtained were statistically significant using ANOVA test. Analgesic activity was assessed with the help of following screening methods. Acetic Acid Writhing Method using Acetic Acid. Tail Flick Method using the Analgesiometer. Tail Immersion Method using Hot Water (55 0 C). Hot Plate method using Hot Plate. RESULTS: Aqueous extract of curcuma amada significantly suppressed the 1% acetic acid induced writhing response in rats when compared to control group (Gum acacia). In Tail flick test and Hot plate test Curcuma Amada increases the latency period of pain (reaction time). In Tail immersion test the test drug significantly (P < 0.001) reduces pain at 30 min when compared to control group at 60 min of oral administration. CONCLUSION: The present findings indicate that Curcuma Amada showed significant analgesic activity may be via peripheral as well as central mechanisms.