J Ethnopharmacol. 1994 May; 42(3): 179-82.

Evaluation of Nigerian traditional medicines: 1. Plants used for rheumatic (inflammatory) disorders.

Akah PA, Nwambie AI.

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

In continuation of our evaluation of the Nigerian traditional medicine system which forms an important part of health care delivery, we investigated some plants attributed to possess potent anti-rheumatic activity. Ten plant species representing 9 different families were screened for anti-inflammatory activity. The extracts were tested for anti-inflammatory activity against acute inflammation induced by two phlogistic agents. Acute toxicity testing and phytochemical analyses were carried out. The results revealed significant anti-inflammatory activity of all extracts tested against acute inflammation.