Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Ipomoea Hederifolia Linn

Pain and inflammation represent significant global health burdens, with plant-derived medicines contributing substantially to modern therapeutics. Ipomoea hederifolia Linn., a traditional medicinal plant, has been empirically used for inflammation management, though its pharmacological properties remain scientifically unvalidated. This study systematically evaluates the analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of Ipomoea hederifolia through comprehensive phytochemical characterization and preclinical pharmacological assessments. The ethanolic extract was prepared via continuous hot extraction and subjected to detailed phytochemical quantification (tannins, phenolics, alkaloids, flavonoids) and GC-MS analysis. Pharmacological evaluation included antioxidant capacity and protein denaturation inhibition in vitro, acute toxicity testing per OECD guidelines 423, acetic acid-induced writhing (peripheral analgesia), hot plate test (central analgesia), and carrageenan-induced paw edema (anti-inflammatory activity). Test groups received 200/400 mg/kg extract, compared against diclofenac (10/50 mg/kg) and tramadol (40 mg/kg) controls. Phytochemical analysis revealed substantial bioactive content (tannins 8.3%, flavonoids 8.02%). GC-MS identified 23 therapeutically relevant compounds correlating with observed bioactivities. The extract demonstrated potent antioxidant activity (IC50 54.2 μg/mL) and 78.52% protein denaturation inhibition at 31.25 μg/mL. Significant analgesia occurred through both peripheral (57.3% writhing inhibition) and central (latency increase >150%) mechanisms, with dose-dependent anti-inflammatory effects (68.4% edema reduction). Remarkably, no toxicity was observed at 2000 mg/kg, indicating an exceptional safety profile for therapeutic development. This study provides conclusive pharmacological validation of Ipomoea hederifolia traditional use, demonstrating its multifunctional therapeutic potential through robust antioxidant, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory activities. Further research should focus on clinical translation, mechanism elucidation, and compound isolation to fully realize its therapeutic value in pain and inflammation management.