Analgesic effect of methanolic extract of Vetiveria zizanoides in wistar rats

Abstract

Introduction: Vetiveria zizanoides is used as a traditional medicine for a number of conditions, but there is lack of scientific data regarding its analgesic action. Aim: to study the analgesic action of methanolic extract of Vetiveria zizanoides (VZ) on animal models of analgesia. Methods: The animals were divided in to four groups (n=6). The groups received gum acacia, tramadol, VZ 300mg/kg and VZ 500 mg/kg orally. The analgesic effect of the plant extract was tested using hot plate and tail flick models. Results: VZ500 mg/kg produced a significant analgesic action in both the models of analgesia which was comparable to that of tramadol. VZ 300mg/kg produced significant analgesic action only hot plate model. Conclusion: The present study suggests the central analgesic action of methanolic extract   of Vetiveria zizanoides. Further studies are required to confirm its analgesic action.

Key words: Vetiveria zizanoides, methanolic extract, analgesia