Abstract

AbstractThe present study was designed to establish scientific evidence for the traditional claim on the use of fern Cyclosorus parasiticus in the treatment of rheumatism (inflammatory disease). Anti-inflammatory activity of the acetone extract of epidermal glands was tested by two models, viz., carrageenan and egg albumin-induced hind paw oedema. Before that, acute toxicity was performed following the OECD guidelines. No mortality was observed in experimental animals to the acetone extract at the test dose of 2000 mg/kg b.w. p.o. There were no signs and symptoms of toxicities. Hence, the extract was considered to be safe. The acetone extract of the epidermal glands showed dose-dependent activity against the development of oedema in experimental rats compared to the standards. The acetone extract significantly reduced the paw volume (*P<0.001 at 200 mg/kg and *P<0.01 at 100 mg/kg) compared to control. The results of the investigation substantiate and provide scientific evidence for the traditional claim against rheumatism. However, isolation of the bioactive compound from the acetone extract and its scientific screening by pre-clinical and clinical methods is a prerequisite to translate the traditional claim into plant-based drug to treat rheumatism.