The effect of extract and fractions of the root bark of Securidaca
longipedunculata Fres (Polygalaceae) on acute inflammation was
evaluated. Solvent extraction yielded the crude methanol extract (ME)
while solvent guided extraction yielded a petroleum ether fraction (PF)
and methanol fraction (MF). The extract and fractions inhibited topical
edema induced by xylene in the mouse ear. In the systemic edema of the
rat paw, the methanol extract (ME) and methanol fraction (MF)
significantly (P<0.05) suppressed the development of paw edema
induced by egg albumin in rats while the petroleum ether fraction (PF)
was devoid of such activity.Ulcerogenic assay in rats indicated that
the extract and fractions exhibited varying degrees of gastric
irritation in rats in the order of magnitude: MF > PF > ME.
Phytochemical tests showed that ME and MF tested positive for
carbohydrates, reducing sugars, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids,
sterols and saponins while PF gave positive reaction for resins
only.Acute toxicity test for ME in mice established an i.p and p.o LD50
of 11 and 282 mg/kg respectively
