Evaluation in vivo of anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Matricaria pubescens alkaloids

Matricaria pubescens is a traditional medicinal plant, widely used by the Saharan population to treat many diseases. This work was devoted to the evaluation in vivo of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive properties of M. pubescens alkaloids. In order to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and the analgesic activities of M. pubescens alkaloids, three doses 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight, were tested. The results obtained were compared with those of the standard (Diclofenac 50 mg/kg body weight) and those of the control (saline). The study of anti-inflammatory activity demonstrated that different doses of M. pubescens alkaloids inhibited significantly inflammatory carrageenan-induced edema compared to the control. Tests of peripheral and central analgesic activities showed that the alkaloids extract inhibited the abdominal contractions induced by administration of acetic acid and decreased pain induced by heating, significantly compared to the control. These results could support the traditional use of M. pubescens against several diseases.