Evaluation of the anti-edematous activity of Sclerocarya birrea, a medicinal plant of the Anacardiaceae family

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants in traditional African medicine remains vital, particularly in rural areas, for managing inflammatory conditions. This study investigates the anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory potential of the ethanolic bark extract of Sclerocarya birrea, a species commonly used in traditional medicine. The bark was collected in Djingliya (Koza district) and extracted via maceration in ethanol. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of several bioactive compounds, notably flavonoids, sterols, triterpenes, polyphenols, quinones, and tannins, all known for anti-inflammatory properties.Anti-edematous activity was evaluated using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model in albino Wistar rats, divided into four groups (control, ibuprofen 10 mg/kg, extract at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg). Edema progression was monitored over six hours. Results indicated a significant reduction in edema volume in rats treated with both extract doses compared to the control. The 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg doses showed 48.3% and 65.5% edema inhibition, respectively, similar to ibuprofen (65.7%). The anti-inflammatory effect of the 500 mg/kg extract was statistically comparable to that of ibuprofen at T3, suggesting that the extract may exert its effect via inhibition of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, serotonin, and prostaglandins.The findings support the traditional use of Sclerocarya birrea in managing inflammation and highlight its potential as a natural source of anti-inflammatory agents with fewer side effects than synthetic drugs. Further studies on compound isolation and mechanisms of action are recommended to explore its full therapeutic potential.