Phytochemical screening and assessment of analgesic, Anti-inflammatory and hematological properties of the fruit of Berberis baluchistanica

Traditionally Berberis species have been used as anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, analgesic and anti-anemic drugs. This study was aimed to determine chemical constituents and to assess analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hematological effects of the crude extract of the berries of Berberis baluchistanica to verify these folkloric claims. Phytochemical screening, carried out by using different chemical reagents and techniques like Thin-Layer Chromatography (TLC) and Fourier Transform Infra-Red (FTIR) indicated presence of flavonoids, saponins, phytosterols and carbohydrates including reducing sugars. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were assessed on mice by using acetic acid induced writhing method and formalin method. Potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects were observed during these experiments. The extract also showed anti anemic effect as it increased the levels of hemoglobin and red blood cells significantly. Increase in the platelet count was also noted. The extract of the berries was used at oral doses of 300 and 500 mg/kg during experiments. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities were determined by comparing with the standard i.e. aspirin 300 mg/kg. Both doses produced significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities at P square 0.05. These activities were seemingly attributable to flavonoid and saponin contents of the drug. These results justify the folkloric claims that the drug could be used as good anti-inflammatory, antirehumatic, analgesic and anti-anemic drug. However, further chemical investigations on the drug are suggested for isolation and identification of compounds that could be safer and more effective than the currently available medicines in treating these disorders.