Anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activity of the water decoction Desmodium gangeticum.

The water decoction of root and aerial parts of Desmodium gangeticum (Leguminosae) was examined for anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive activity in experimental animals. The root and aerial decoction in doses of 5, 10 and 20 mg /kg caused a dose-dependent inhibition of swelling caused by carrageenin equivalent to 14.58-51.02% protection and 14.43-38.67%, respectively, in cotton pellet granuloma. There was a significant increase in analgesio-meter-induced force equivalent to 6.56-67.66% protection and 22.18-73.83% protection in acetic acid-induced writhing. The result establishes the traditional use of water decoction of Desmodium gangeticum codified in Indian System of Medicine.