Studies on the pharmacological activities of an ethanol extract of balessan (Commiphoraopobalsamum)

The pharmacological activities of an ethanolic extract of Balessan (Commiphoraopobalsamum) on inflammation induced by carrageenans and cotton pellets implant in rats; thenociceptive writhing response and the tail flick tests and the yeast induced pyretic activityand urine flow were examined in rats and mice. Oral administration of Balessan extract atdoses of 250 and 500 mg kg-1 body weight showed a significant anti-inflammatory activity inrats. The extract significantly decreased the number of contractions and stretching inducedby acetic acid and heat-induced pain in mice. Moreover, a significant increase in urine volumewas noted in rats. A preliminary phytochemical screening of Balessan revealed the presence ofa volatile oil, flavonoids, saponin, sterols and/or triterpenes. The observations suggest thatBalessan extract possesses an anti-inflammatory, analgesic and diuretic activities in laboratoryanimals.