Effect of the aqueous and methanolic extracts of Prangos ferulacea on formalin-induced pain in mice

Prangos ferulacea has been used for GI disorders in traditional medicine. It has been known as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory herb among folk people. However, the analgesic effect of this plant has not scientifically evaluated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the analgesic effect of Prangos ferulacea in mice. 30 minutes after intraperitoneal administration of different doses of aqueous or methanolic extracts of Prangos ferulacea, its analgesic effect was evaluated in mice using formalin test. The durations of paw licking and biting were recorded at 5 min. intervals for 30 min. after injection of formalin. The aqueous extract at dose of 100mg/kg reduced pain at phase 2 and; at doses of 300, 900 and 1350 mg/kg reduced pain at phase 1 and 2 of formalin test. The methanolic extract reduced pain at dose of 200mg/kg at phase 2; and at doses of 400 and 800 mg/kg at phase 1 and phase 2 of formalin test. Discussion and The results of this study showed that the aqueous and methanolic extracts of Prangos ferulacea have analgesic properties. Both extracts contain compounds which exert both peripheral and central analgesia. Future studies are needed to isolate the effective compound and to find the analgesic mechanism of this plant.