Evaluation of Analgesics and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Root Extract of Impatiens rothii (Balsaminaceae) in Rodents

BACKGROUND: The roots of Impatiens rothii has been used as a traditional remedy for painful conditions, rheumatism, isthmus and crural aches. However, the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant have yet to be scientifically confirmed. The purpose of this study was to explore possible analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities 80% methanolic root extract of Impatiens rothii. METHODS: To obtain the crude extract, the roots of Impatiens rothii that had been dried and ground up were macerated in 80% methanol. The analgesic activity was determined using acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests in mice, whereas the anti-inflammatory activity was analyzed using carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats. The extract was orally administered at a dose of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg. RESULTS: All tested doses of Impatiens rothii extract showed significant analgesic activity (p<0.05) at observations of 30 to 120 minutes compared to the negative control in the hot plate test. In acetic acid-induced writhing test all tested doses of the 80% methanol extract of Impatiens rothii significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the number of writhing. In comparison to the control group, all tested doses displayed a significant decrease in paw edema, which appeared 2–5 hours after induction (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: From the results of this study, it can be stated that 80% methanolic extract of Impatiens rothii possessed substantial analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities, hence providing scientific basis for the use of this plant in the treatment of pain and inflammatory diseases.