Anti-inflammatory effect of crude extract and isolated compounds from Baccharis illinita DC in acute skin inflammation

Ethnopharmacologycal relevanceThe tea from the leaves of Baccharis illinita DC (Asteraceae family) is commonly used by the population as anti-inflammatory (including topically), protective gastric and anti-infectious. However, no studies have been done with this species to confirm its topical anti-inflammatory action.AimThis study evaluated he topical effects of crude extract of leaves (CE) and its active constituents in 12-O-tetradecanoilforbol acetate (TPA)-induced ear oedema.MethodologyCE and compounds effects were tested in commonly used models of TPA-, arachidonic acid (AA)- and capsaicin-ear oedema. Polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell migration was evaluated by mieloperoxidase and analyzed histologically.ResultsCE (0.1–1 mg/ear) caused a dose-related inhibition of TPA-induced ear oedema and PMN influx similarly to that produced by topical application of the steroidal anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone. The active constituents of the AcOEt fraction kaurenoic acid, α-spinasterol, oleanolic acid and baurenol also inhibited TPA-induced ear edema. Histological analysis of the ear of CE-treated animals confirmed the reduction of edema and of PMN infiltration. Both CE and the nosteroidal anti-inflammatory drug indomethacin inhibited the AA-induced ear oedema, but did not change capsaicin-induced oedema.ConclusionThese results indicate that the CE and the active constituents have a topical anti-inflammatory effect and the possible mechanisms for the pharmacological effects are discussed.

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