Abstract

Moringa oleifera leaves are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols, offering potential for managing inflammation and related disorders. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory activity of ethanol extract of M. oleifera leaves using carrageenan induced paw edema model in Wistar rats. Thirty rats were divided into six groups (n=5) Group I: normal control; Group II: negative control; Group III: carrageenan + 100mg/kg bw Moringa extract; Group IV: carrageenan+ 200mg/kg bw Moringa extract; Group V: carrageenan + 400mg/kg bw Moringa extract and Group VI: carrageenan+10mg/kg bw indomethacin. Inflammation was induced via carrageenan injection (0.1ml of 1%) into the paw. Paw edema was measured at regular intervals for 14 days. Biochemical assays assessed malondiadehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), nitrate, and superoxide dismutase (SOD). For histopathological observation, the paw tissue was excised immediately after sacrifice and fixed in 10% neutral buffered formation fixative solution. It was dehydrated and embedded in paraffin. The sections were then stained with hematoxylin eosin (H α E) followed by investigation using a light microscope. M. oleifera extract reduced paw edema in a dose dependent manner with the 200mg/kg bw dose showing the greatest effect, approaching that of the standard drug (indomethacin). Extract treatment demonstrated that M. oleifera significantly decreased the MDA, GSH, and nitrate levels while increasing SOD activity; demonstrating antioxidant activity. Histopathological examination of paw tissues confirmed reduced edema and inflammatory cell infiltration in treated groups. Anti-inflammatory effects are dose dependent with 200mg/kg bw being most effective. Extract reduces paw edema and modulates oxidative stress markers (MDA, nitrate, GSH and SOD). This support traditional use and potential therapeutic application of M. oleifera leaves.

Key words: Moringa oleifera, paw edema, oxidative stress, inflammation, Wistar rats.