Activité anti-inflammatoire et évaluation de la toxicité in vivo des extraits aqueux des feuilles de Pistacia lentiscus L

Abstract

Pistacia lentiscus L. is an evergreen shrub from the Anacardiaceae family, widely distributed in the Mediterranean basin. In Algeria, it is traditionally used for its therapeutic properties. In this context, the aim of our study was to establish the toxicological profile and to evaluate the in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the aqueous leaf extracts of Pistacia lentiscus (PLEAF). Phytochemical analysis of the aqueous extract revealed a high content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The extracts showed free radical scavenging activity in the DPPH assay, although slightly lower than that of BHT (IC₅₀ = 0.11 mg/mL compared to 0.087 mg/mL for BHT). An acute toxicity study was conducted in NMRI mice to evaluate tolerance at doses of 2 g/kg and 5 g/kg. Clinical signs such as asthenia, anorexia, and reduced mobility were observed in both treated groups. No mortality was recorded at 2000 mg/kg, while two deaths occurred at 5000 mg/kg. The estimated LD₅₀ is therefore between 2000 mg/kg and 5000 mg/kg, indicating moderate toxicity at high doses. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory activity was investigated in a formalin-induced arthritis model in NMRI mice. Oral administration at doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of paw swelling, with moderate inhibition at 200 mg/kg and inhibition at 300 mg/kg. Histopathological analysis confirmed a reduction in edema