Pharmacognostic study and anti – inflammatory activity of Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir. fruit

ObjectiveTo study pharmacognostic evaluation and anti – inflammatory activity of Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir. (P. reticulatus) fruit.MethodsThe fruit sample was studied by macroscopical, microscopical and other WHO recommended methods for standardisation. The hydroalcoholic extract of ripe fruit was also screened for anti-inflammatory activity by carrageenan induced left hind paw oedema in rat at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, orally.ResultsTransverse section of fruit and powder study showed the presence of epicarp, mesocarp, endocarp, fibres and sclereids. Hydroalcoholic extract of fruit showed significant (P < 0.01) reduction of paw volume when compared with diclofenac sodium. The extract showed anti – inflammatory activity at 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg and was comparable with diclofenac sodium.ConclusionsPharmacognostic profile of Phyllanthus reticulatus provides the simplest and quickest means to establish the identity and purity and thereby assure the quality of sample. The hydroalcoholic extract shows significant anti – inflammatory activity at both doses when compared with standard drug diclofenac sodium (100 mg/kg).