The effect of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) on inflammatory markers (total leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count and tumor necrosis factor-alpha)

Background: Inflammation is involved in pathogenesis of many diseases. Anti-inflammatory chemicals can be used to treat such illness especially if they are derived from plant sources as they will have fewer side effects. To find out the outcome of ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum flower buds on markers of inflammation in albino rats. Methods: Anti-inflammatory activity was investigated in albino rats using an experimental model of inflammation, the "formalin test" (injecting 5% formalin into subplantar surface of right hind paw of the rat). Ninety rats were uniformly divided into three groups designated as control A, experimental B and reference C. Intraperitoneal injections of normal saline, Syzygium aromaticum flower bud extract and indomethacin were used. In these rats, foot edema was measured by Vernier caliper. Blood sampling was done through cardiac puncture under anesthesia to determine total and differential leukocyte counts and serum tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) levels. Results: The clove extract produced significant (p=0.00) decrease in inflammatory response initiated by 5% formalin. The extract significantly decreased (p=0.009) serum TNF-alpha. However, its effect on the total and differential leukocyte counts was non-significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: The ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum possess powerful anti-inflammatory effects. Antiinflammatory effect of this herb is mainly through reduction in inflammatory cytokines level. By accepting effective herbaceous therapy, we can bring forth a revolutionary solution in management of inflammation with fewer side effects.