Abstract
Introduction: Acacia tortilis ssp. raddiana is rich in bioactive phytochemicals, particularly phenolic constituents, exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, this study investigated the phytochemical composition and analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fibrotic effects of Acacia raddiana.
Methods: The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the hydroethanolic leaf extract (0.5–1 g/kg) were evaluated in Swiss albino mice using the models of thermal nociception, chemical nociception, and carrageenan-induced paw inflammation. The early therapeutic effects of the leaf extract and gum solution were assessed in an experimental pulmonary fibrosis model induced by bleomycin. The phytochemical composition was investigated using standard qualitative and quantitative methods based on precipitation and colorimetric reactions. Moreover, the leaf extract was analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to identify phenolic compounds.
Results: Phytochemical screening revealed flavonoids, saponins, tannins, anthraquinones, coumarins, steroids, and triterpenes in the leaf extract, and saponins, terpenes, sterols, and coumarins in the gum. The polysaccharide content of the gum was estimated at 58.8% (w/w). HPLC analysis showed that rutin was the major constituent of the leaf extract (24%). Pretreatment with the extract (0.5–1 g/kg, p.o.)significantly reduced acetic acid–evoked writhing, carrageenan-mediated paw swelling, and increased reaction latency in the hot plate test (P<0.01). Both the extract and gum attenuated weight loss, oxidative damage, pulmonary collagen accumulation, and inflammatory alterations associated with bleomycin-mediated lung injury.
Conclusion: These results may support the therapeutic potential of A. tortilis ssp. raddiana in pain, inflammation, and pulmonary fibrosis.