Anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic activities of earthworm extract-Lampito mauritii (Kinberg)

Aim of the study: Experiments were conducted to understand the therapeutic properties such as anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic activities of biologically active extract isolated from whole earthworm (Lampito mauritii, Kinberg). Materials and methods: Inflammation in the hind paw of Wistar albino rat, Rattus norvegicus, was induced by histamine. granuloma pouch was induced by turpentine and pyrexia induced by Brewer's yeast in rats were followed as earlier studies. Anti-inflammatory drug-indomethacin and anti-pyretic drug-paracetamol were used as standard drug for comparison. Results: Administration of indomethacin (10 mg/kg), paracetamol (150 mg/kg) and/or different doses of earthworm extract (EE) (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) reduced and restored to normal conditions in a dose-dependent manner of histamine and turpentine induced inflammation, and Brewer's yeast induced pyretic in rats. Conclusions: The most significant inhibition of paw oedema and granuloma and also the significant reduction in hyperpyrexia in rats when treated with standard drugs as well as different doses of EE, reflect the presence of anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic properties of EE similar to glycoprotein complex (G-90). (C) 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.