Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of red seaweed Dichotomaria obtusata

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to investigate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of red seaweed Dichotomaria obtusata, using classic tests in mice (ear edema induced by TPA and writhing induced by acetic acid). The qualitative chemical composition of the aqueous extract (lactones, phenols, triterpenes, steroids and reduced carbohydrates) obtained from this alga was also determined. The results showed that Dichotomaria obtusata (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg, ip) inhibited mouse ear edema in a dose-dependent manner. In the writhing test, aqueous extract (12.5, 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, ip and 100, 200, 400, 800 mg/kg, po) significantly reduced abdominal writhes. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of aqueous extract of D. Obtusata in experimental models. These results suggest that D. obtusata aqueous extract possesses therapeutic potential in the treatment of peripheral painful or/and inflammatory conditions.