The analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of the methanolic extract of the leaves of
Jatropha Curcas
were investigated in mice and rats respectively. The phytochemical screening of the extract was also carried
out. The analgesic effect was determined by acetic acid – induced writhing test in mice. While the anti- inflammatory
activity was determined by egg albumin – induced oedema of the rat paw. Phytochemical screening was done by
standard procedures.
Jatropha curcas leaf extract (10-80mg/kg) caused a statistically significant inhibition on the egg
albumin – induced eodema or inflammation in Wister albino rats with P < 0.001 (ANOVA). This effect was
comparable to the observed effect with Piroxicam (0.5mg/kg) which was used as a standard. The effect was also
dose- dependent. Furthermore,
Jatropha curcas extract caused a statistically significant reduction in the number of
acetic acid- induced writhing in mice, with P < 0.001 (ANOVA). These effects were also dose- dependent and
comparable to the analgesic effects obtained with paracetamol which was used as a reference drug. Phytochemical
screening revealed the presence of Flavonoids, steroids, triterpenoids Alkaloids, tannins and saponins in Jatropha
curcas leaf extract.
Jatropha curcas can be recommended for acute inflammatory disorders and diseases associated
with pains. This also supports its use traditionally as an anti-snake bite, rheumatism and anti- cancer or anti-tumor
agent. Further study is on the way to find out the mechanism of its action and also to isolate, identify and characterize
the active agent responsible for these effects in this plant.
