Phytochemical analysis, toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of Inula viscosa extracts used in traditional medicine

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the biological properties of Inula viscosa (magraman) through the preparation of two different extracts an ethanolic extract and an aqueous extract. Firstly, a phytochemical investigation was carried out by determining the contents of total polyphenols and flavonoids in both extracts in order to assess their richness in bioactive secondary metabolites. Subsequently, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated using several complementary assays, including DPPH, ABTS, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and β-carotene bleaching tests. These assays were performed to determine the ability of the extracts to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, an acute toxicity study was conducted over a period of 14 days using two doses (2000 mg/kg and 5000 mg/kg body weight). The mice were monitored daily for signs of toxicity, changes in body weight, and water consumption. At the end of the experiment, the major organs, including the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys, and spleen, were collected and weighed to assess any potential physiological or pathological alterations induced by the extracts. Finally, the anti-inflammatory activity of the extracts was investigated using two experimental models of induced inflammation: the carrageenan-induced oedema test and the xylene-induced inflammation test. These models were used to evaluate the ability of the extracts to reduce inflammatory responses. The results demonstrated that Inula viscosa extracts possess significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while showing no evidence of acute toxicity at the tested doses. This means that the lethal dose is greater than 5000 mg/kg in acute toxicity. These findings support the potential therapeutic value of this plant and justify its traditional use as well as its possible application in pharmaceutical and biomedical research.