Anti-Arthritic and Anti-Inflammatory Actions of Nimbidin

Abstract

Nimbidin, a compound isolated from the oil of seeds of Azadirachta indica (NEEM), has been screened in comparison with two standard anti-inflammatory agents, phenylbutazone, a non-steriod and prednisolone, a steroid; against various experimental models of inflammation. It was found to significantly reduce acute paw oedema in rats induced by phlogistic agents, carrageenin and kaolin. The test drug significantly suppressed the formalin-induced arthritis of ankle joint and the fluid exudation in croton oil-induced granuloma in rats. In acute phase of inflammation, nimbidin (40 mg/kg) was found to possess significant activity as compared to phenylbutazone (100 mg/kg). Since the drug was found to be effective in both acute and chronic phases of inflammation it can be considered as a general anti-inflammatory agent.

Key Word Index

Azadirachta indica - Nimbidin - Anti-arthritic - Anti-inflammatory - Carrageenin and Kaolin paw oedema - Formaldehyde arthritis - Croton oil granuloma