Phytochemical and Anti-Inflammatory Studies on Methanol Leaf Extract of Scoparia Dulcis Linn.

Abstract

Scoparia dulcis L is a well-known medicinal plant in Nigeria and has many applications in traditional medicines preparations. 
Phytochemical screening on the methanol leaf extract of S. dulcis was carried out to identify the phytochemicals present which 
could be attributed to its acceptability and usage in Nigeria. The extract was also investigated for its anti-inflammatory activity 
on carrageenan induced paw edema in Wistar albino rats. The phytochemical screening of the extract revealed the presence of 
carbohydrates, tannins, flavonoids, steroids/triterpenes, saponins, cardiac glycosides and alkaloids. The extract at doses of 500 
and 1000mg/kg significantly reduced inflammation at the 3rd, 4th and 5th hours when compared to the control with a peak 
inhibition observed at the 4
th hour. The methanol leaf extract of Scoparia dulcis contain bioactive phytochemical with antiinflammatory activity which explains its use in the treatment of inflammatory conditions in Nigerian traditional medicine.