Abstract

Aqueous, ethanolic and methanolic extracts of Ruta graveolens were investigated for anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan induced paw edema in wistar male rats, and compared to a positive control drug, Voveran. These extracts were given (ip) in a concentration of 20 and 50 mg/kg b.w. before carrageenan injection. Methanolic extracts of R. graveolens with a concentration of 20 mg/kg b.w. and ethanolic extract with a concentration of 50 mg/kg b.w. showed maximum (90.9%) inhibition on carrageenan induced rat paw edema. The effect was significantly (P< 0.05) higher than that of the standard drug Voveran (72.72%). Methanol extract with a concentration of 50 mg/kg b.w. produced 81.81% inhibition, which was also high as compared to the standard drug. Ethanolic extract with a dose of 20 mg/kg b.w and the two doses of aqueous extract produce less percentage of inhibition as compared to the standard drug voveran.

Key words: Ruta graveolens, anti-inflammation, carrageenan.