In vitro and in vivo antiinflammatory activity of hydroethanolic extract of rhododendron arboreum

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory potential of hydroethanolic extract of Rhododendron arboretum (RAHE) using in vitro and in vivo methods was undertaken in this study. In vitro methods included inhibition of albumin denaturation test and of estimation anti-proteinase activity whereas in vivo methods included formalin and Freund's, adjuvant induced rat paw edema model for assessment of anti-inflammatory potential of RAHE. Results of the study revealed 67.50% inhibition of albumin denaturation at 500μg/ml concentration whereas diclofenac showed 52% inhibition. RAHE showed 51.28% anti-proteinase activity at concentration of 500μg/ml whereas diclofenac showed a response of 41.20% and significant (P<0.05) reduction in paw edema was observed following oral administration of RAHE which indicated potent anti-inflammatory activity of the RAHE. It is concluded from this study that hydroethanolic extract of Rhododendron arboretum (RAHE) following in vitro and in vivo assessment revealed potent anti-inflammatory potential.