In vitro Evaluation of the Synergistic Anti-inflammatory Activities of the Combined Hydroalcoholic Extracts from Mentha Pulegium L. and Pimpinella Anisum L.

Abstract

Background: Chronic inflammatory diseases are rising, driving the search for effective natural treatments. Mentha pulegium L. and Pimpinella anisum L. (anise) exhibit notable anti-inflammatory properties individually, but their combined effects are less studied. This research evaluates the in vitro synergistic anti-inflammatory activities of their hydroalcoholic extracts. Phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols in both extracts. Individually, they demonstrated significant activity (78.5% and 72.3%, respectively, at 10 g/L) compared to Diclofenac (62.3%). Their combination achieved 88.6% inhibition at the same concentration. These findings highlight their potential as natural anti-inflammatory agents.

Introduction: The rise in chronic inflammatory diseases has increased interest in natural anti-inflammatory treatments. Mentha pulegium L. and Pimpinella anisum L. are well-known for their anti-inflammatory potential, attributed to their bioactive compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols. While the individual effects of these plants are established, their combined use is underexplored. This study evaluates the in vitro synergistic anti-inflammatory activity of hydroalcoholic extracts from these plants, aiming to offer an effective natural therapeutic alternative.

Methods: Hydroalcoholic extracts were prepared by maceration of both plants. Anti-in-flammatory activity was assessed using the protein denaturation method with Diclofenac as a standard.

Results: Phytochemical analysis identified flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, and polyphenols in Mentha pulegium, with an absence of saponins. Pimpinella anisum contained flavonoids, tannins, heterosides, and polyphenols. The extracts exhibited strong anti-inflammatory activity individually (78.5% and 72.3%, respectively, at 10 g/L) and even higher inhibition (88.6%) when combined, surpassing Diclofenac (62.3%).

Conclusion: The combination of Mentha pulegium and Pimpinella anisum extracts significantly enhanced anti-inflammatory activity compared to individual extracts, under-scoring their potential as natural therapeutic alternatives to conventional treatments.