Anti-inflammatory and Nociceptive Properties of the Root Aqueous Extract of Vernonia amygdalina and Ocimum graticimum Using Animal Models

Benjamin Ogunma Gabriel (University of Benin)
Marian Jegbefumere Osemwegie (Edo State University)
Innocent Inomo Inomo (University of Benin)
Ofunre Ozolua Eboreime (University of Benin)

Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry
Vol 15, No 1 (2026)

Vernonia amygdalina is a medicinal plant used in folk medicine for the treatment of several diseases. Ocimum graticimum plant roots act as sedatives for children. Ocimum tea is an infused form of the herb used in treating fever and diaphoresis. The study aims to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the root extracts of biherbal using Swiss mice and Wistar rats. The plant samples were collected, air-dried, ground, and processed into a root biherbal extract. Adult Swiss mice and Wistar rats were obtained to assess anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects using animal models. The results obtained showed a significant reduction in edema at 100 and 200 mg/kg of the extract. The analgesic effects at 100 and 200 mg/kg had a significant reduction in acetic acid and formalin-induced pain models. All effects were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The biherbal extract exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, with further research needed to identify bioactive compounds and explore its modern medical potential.