Bridging Ethnomedicine And Biomedicine: Ethnomedicinal And Anti-Inflammatory Evaluation Of Aspidium Cicutarium Rhizome

Abstract

The current research explores the anti-inflammatory potential of Aspidium cicutarium rhizome using phytochemical, pharmacological, and molecular docking methods. Inflammation is a major response linked to many chronic diseases, and existing treatments like NSAIDs often come with serious side effects. Considering the traditional medicinal use of Aspidium cicutarium, this study sought to confirm its effectiveness through scientific means. It is traditionally used in the Konkan region of India to treat inflammatory conditions. The methanolic extract of the rhizome by the maceration method was evaluated for phytochemical study and showed the presence of active components such as alkaloids, phenols, and tannins. The methanolic extract was assessed for in vitro anti-inflammatory activity using a protein denaturation test, and in vivo activity was measured with a carrageenan-induced paw edema model in Sprague Dawley rats. The results showed a significant reduction of inflammation in both tests, with higher doses providing more effectiveness. Molecular docking studies also indicated strong binding between key phytochemicals and the COX receptor, suggesting a possible mechanism to reduce inflammation. Blood samples were withdrawn from all the animals by retro-orbital plexus puncture. Blood was collected for hematology analysis for biomarker investigation (C-reactive protein). Overall, these findings support the traditional use of Aspidium cicutarium and highlight its potential as a natural option for creating safer anti-inflammatory treatments.