Anti-inflammatory Activity of Ziziphus jujuba Lam Leaves Extract in Rats

Objective: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the alcoholic extract of Ziziphus jujuba Lam leaves in albino rats. Materials and methods: Ziziphus jujuba leaves were extracted with 90 % ethanol and the extract was screened for anti-inflammatory activity at the doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg using acute carrageenan induced paw oedema in albino rats. Diclofenac sodium (100 mg/kg, p.o.) was used as standard reference drug. Results: The % inhibition of paw edema at 3 h after carrageenan administration produced by Ziziphus jujuba leaves extract at the dose of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg was 44.5%, 62.2% and 81.8% respectively when compared to control. The paw oedema attenuating effect of Ziziphus jujuba leaves extract at the dose of 600 mg/kg was comparable with that produced by diclofenac sodium (88.6%). Conclusion: The present study indicates that Ziziphus jujuba leaves extract possess significant anti-inflammatory activity against carrageenan-induced rat paw edema.