Anti-inflammatory and Anti-helminthic potential of Methanolic and Aqueous extract of Polygonum alpinum rhizomes

Abstract

Aim: The present research work was carried out to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and anthelminthic activity of the extracts of Polygonum alpinum rhizomes. Methods: Fresh rhizomes of the P. alpinum were collected, washed and shade dried. The methanolic and aqueous extracts were first tested for phytochemical screening. In-vitro anti-inflammatory activities of crude extracts were evaluated by HRBC (Human Red Blood Cell) membrane stabilization method and percentage inhibition of protein denaturation method. Similarly anti-helminthic activity was evaluated using earthworms of 6-8 cm in length and 0.3-0.4 cm in width and the results were compared with standard drug Albendazole. Results: Phytochemical analysis of the extract reveals the of presence of Carbohydrates, Cardiac glycosides, Coumarins, proteins,  amino acids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, tannins and phenolics. The methanolic extract showed potent membrane stabilizing and significantly inhibit protein denaturation as compared to standard indomethacin. Methanolic extract at the concentration of 125μg/mL showed 81.29% membrane stabilizing activity as compared to aqueous extract 64.72%. Standard indomethacin showed 95.56 % activity at the same concentration. Similarly, methanolic extract at 500μg/mL showed 72.70% inhibition of protein denaturation as compared to aqueous extract 64.72%. Standard indomethacin showed 88.26% inhibition of protein denaturation at the same concentration. Both the methanolic and aqueous extracts showed dose dependent anthelminthic activity as compared to standard Albendazole. Conclusion: These results suggest that both the extracts from P. alpinum have promising anti-inflammatory and anthelmintic activity and that more broadly; plant extracts are a potential rich source of anti-inflammatory and anthelmintics to combat these diseases.