Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities of hydro-ethanolic extract of Securidaca longipedunculata Fresen leaves

The use of Securidaca longipedunculata for solving health problems related to immunological disorders is long-standing. The immunomodulatory activity associated with the anti-inflammatory effect of S. longipedunculata has not yet been elucidated by scientific research. The aim of our study is to show that the leaves of S. longipedunculata can solve problems related to immunodeficiency and inflammation.

The phytochemical compounds of the plant were carried out by solubility tests. The anti-inflammatory activity of the plant was evaluated by the chicken egg albumin denaturation inhibition, membrane stabilization, and C-reactive protein (CRP) tests. The 2,2-diphenyl1-picrylhydrazyl, total antioxidant capacity, and inhibition of lipoperoxidation tests were performed to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the plant. Immunosuppression was induced in rats by cyclophosphamide. The immunomodulatory activity of S. longipedunculata was studied by blood count. The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) titration showed the effect of S. longipedunculata on the energy balance.

The extract contained polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. The tests of albumin denaturation inhibition, membrane stabilisation, CRP, total antioxidant capacity, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl revealed that the extract had anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The blood count results revealed that the extract non-significantly increased the number of leukocytes except in the case of neutrophils and monocytes at a dose of 400 mg/kg (P<0.05). The extract also restored the energy balance in the rats according to the LDH results.

This study reveals that the hydro-ethanolic extract of S. longipedunculata leaves has potential immunostimulant and anti-inflammatory effects.