Phytochemical Analysis, Oral Toxicity, and in Vivo Antinociceptive, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antipyretic Activities of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Prunus Africana
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Date
2025-07
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Journal of Herbmed Pharmacology
Abstract
Introduction: Prunus africana is traditionally used in Kakamega against pain, fever, and
inflammation. This research aimed to identify the phytochemicals, the antipyretic, antiinflammatory, and antinociceptive effects, and oral toxicity of the aqueous leaf extract of P.
africana.
Methods: The plant extract was screened for phytochemicals and minerals. The antiinflammatory and antinociceptive effects were assessed using formalin-induced edema and pain
models using Swiss-albino mice, while the antipyretic effect was evaluated through a turpentineinduced fever model using Wistar rats. Sub-acute toxicity was assessed by administering the
extract orally to Wistar rats at doses of 150, 260, and 450 mg/kg for 28 days. The animals’ weekly
weight and biochemical parameters were measured.
Results: The extract reduced rectal temperature, edema, as well as pain in the initial and late
phases (P < 0.05). The leaves contained carnosic acid, flavonoids, amino acids, phenolic acids,
and thirteen minerals. Serum biochemistry indicated liver injury at doses of 260 and 450 mg/kg
with alterations in total protein, globulin, glucose, creatinine, uric acid, and phosphorus levels
compared to the normal control (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The extract of P. africana exhibits antipyretic, antinociceptive, and antiinflammatory effects; however, it can also cause liver damage. These findings establish a basis
for additional investigation of P. africana for therapeutic use
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Chumba, C. I., Bunei, K. K., Kingori, D. G., & Piero, M. (2025). Phytochemical analysis, oral toxicity, and in vivo antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activities of aqueous leaf extract of Prunus africana. Journal of Herbmed Pharmacology, 14(3).