Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of an Ethanol Extract of Smilax krausiana Leaf in Mice

The effect of ethanolic extract of Smilax krausiana (Smilaceae) leaf was investigated for its analgesic and antiinflammatory activities in mice. The extract significantly (p 0.01-0.001) inhibited in a dose – dependent fashion algesia (nociception) induced by acetic acid, formalin and hot plate. It also reduced in dose-related manner inflammation induced by fresh egg albumin, carrageenin and capsaicin. These inhibitions were statistically significant (p 0.01 – 0.001). Though the mechanism of action of the extract is not fully elucidated, it may in part involve suppression of capillary permeability through neurogenic and non-neurogenic pathways as well as its narcotic potential. The extract’s inhibition of all the models investigated in a non-specific manner supports the folkloric use of the plant.