Miswak sticks’ extract anti-inflammatory properties in carrageenan test

Miswak is the product of Salvadora persica L. that has antibacterial, antifungal, antiplasmudium, anticonvulsant, and gastroprotective properties. In this study, the anti-inflammatory effect of aqueous extract of miswak sticks (Salvadora persica L.) was investigated in carrageenan-induced rat paw edema. Adult male rats were divided into five groups, receiving normal saline, indomethacin (5 mg/kg), extract of Salvadora persica L. (50, 75, and 100 mg/kg), intraperitoneally. Then, carrageenan was injected into plantar surface of paw, and edema was measured using a micrometer in different times. Salvadora persica L. extract at dose of 50 mg/kg reduced inflammation at 4 and 5 hours after carrageenan injection (p<0.05). Doses of 75 mg/kg (p<0.01) and 100 mg/kg (p<0.001) of this extract exerted anti-inflammatory effects at 4, 5, and 6 hours after carrageenan injection. Indomethacin also decreased edema, significantly compared to saline-injected group (p<0.0001). Our data revealed that Salvadora persica L. extract possesses anti-inflammatory properties. However, further experiments on the possible use of this plant in inflammatory disorders are required.