Ethanol extract from Argyreia acuta Lour. leaves exhibit analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models.

Background: Argyreia acuta has traditionally been used for its analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties; however, scientific validation of these effects remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate the pharmacological potential of ethanol extract from A. acuta leaves (AAEE) in murine models of pain, fever, and inflammation.

Materials and methods: The pharmacological properties of A. acuta leaf extract were assessed. Analgesic activity was evaluated using a hot plate and tail-flick assays, while antipyretic effects were tested via a yeast-induced pyrexia model. The anti-inflammatory potential was investigated through carrageenan-induced paw edema and by quantifying pro-inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and PGE₂. Histopathological analysis of paw tissues was performed to confirm inflammatory changes.

Results: AAEE exhibited significant, dose-dependent analgesic effects, as indicated by prolonged latency times and increased pain inhibition (p < 0.05), with the 200 mg/kg dose showing the greatest efficacy. In the antipyretic model, AAEE at 200 mg/kg reduced rectal temperature to 36.93°C, corresponding to an inhibition rate of 82.61% (p < 0.05). The extract significantly reduced paw edema (41.39% inhibition at 200 mg/kg) and markedly lowered levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and PGE₂ (p < 0.05). The histological analysis supported these findings, revealing decreased edema and inflammatory cell infiltration in treated groups.

Conclusions: These findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of A. acuta, demonstrating its significant analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory activities. AAEE may represent a promising natural therapeutic agent for treating pain, fever, and inflammation.