ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND ANTIOXIDANT EFFECT OF ARECA CATECHU

Context: The present investigation provides proof for the effectiveness of Arecanut extract as an anti-inflammatory agent. Arecanut extract is a natural plant product mimic of peroxidase.

Objective: To explore the Anti-inflammatory activity of aqueous extract of Areca catechu L in carrageenan, dextran and formalin induced inflammation models in Swiss albino mice, by injection into the interdigital area, through the subplantar region of the paw. To explore the antioxidant effects of Arecanut extract on the in-vitro system.

Method: Treatment with aqueous extract at 250 mg/kg.bwt and 500 mg/kg.body weight and untreated group was started orally 1 hour prior to the subplantar injection of carrageenan. The paw volume was measured using vernier calipers, before and one hour after carrageenan injection. Similarly in the case of dextran, initial readings were taken on the first day, prior to Formalin administration. Day one readings were taken one hour post formalin administration. This was taken during seven consecutive days challenge period. The drug aqueous arecanut extract at 200mg/kg.bwt, 500 mg/kg.bwt produced reduction in inflammation of the paw produced due to carrageenan, formalin and dextran. In-vitro antioxidant studies showed that aqueous arecanut extract could inhibit superoxide radical production, could inhibit hydroxyl radicals, and could prevent lipid peroxidation. Arecanut extract could scavenge DPPH radicals and also ABTS. In FRAP assay, the reduction of ferric to ferrous is also seen in a concentration dependant manner.

Results: The present investigation provides proof for the effectiveness of treatment as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent. Compared with the control group, the arecanut treated group showed free radical scavenging ability. Compared with the control group, the treatment of mice with Arecanut extract showed reduction in paw oedema in a dose dependent manner at 200 mg/kg.bwt and 500 mg/kg.bwt.

Discussion and Conclusion: Arecanut extract has some protective effects against peroxidative damage. It has anti inflammatory activity, thus it carries a great potential as a health product.