The anti-inflammatory activity of Perna canaliculus (NZ green lipped mussel).

The anti-inflammatory effect of a crude fraction of the New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) has been investigated. A carrageenan-induced inflammatory oedema of the rat hind footpad was used as the experimental model. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents were first shown to be capable of reducing the inflammatory oedema and in the subsequent experiments a representative agent was included as a reference substance. The preparation, Perna canaliculus, effectively reduced the footpad oedema but only if injected into the peritoneal cavity. Decreasing amounts were given IP and 500 mg/kg of the crude preparation was found to be the lowest single dose that would produce a significant reduction in the inflammatory response to carrageenan. Lower doses were effective if the substance was first administered daily for several days, prior to the challenge. Oral administration was not effective in reducing the inflammatory response.