Anti-inflammatory activity of Russelia equisetiformis Schlecht & Cham: identification of its active constituent

Awe Emmanuel Olorunju, Adeloye Adewale, Makinde Janet Modupe

Abstract
Aim: The present research work was carried out to isolate and identify the chemical constituent responsible for the antinflammatory activity of Russelia equisetiformis.
Method: Isolation was carried out using column chromatography. The structure of the isolated compound was identified and established using the available spectroscopic techniques including high-resolution electron mass spectrum. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using egg albumin-induced paw edema, formaldehyde–induced arthritis and cotton pellet granuloma in-vivo tests. Prednisolone was used as a standard drug.
Results: Lupeol was isolated as colorless crystals (mp 213-215OC).Lupeol at the doses of 10, 20, 40 mg/kg produced significant (P<0.05) and dose-dependent inhibition of egg albumin-induced edema and edematous response to arthritis. In chronic model of granuloma pouch in rat, lupeol (20 and 40 mg/kg), significantly (P<0.05) and also dose-dependently reduce the granuloma weight.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that lupeol isolated from extract of Russelia equisetiformis possesses anti-inflammatory activity in acute and certain aspects of chronic inflammation.

Key words: Russelia equisetiformis, Scrophulariacae, lupeol isolation, Anti-inflammatory activity