Topical anti-inflammatory activity in TPA-induced mouse ear edema model and in vitro antibacterial properties of Cordia alba flowers

Cordia is a genus of trees and bushes widely distributed in warm regions around the world. Cordia alba is used in the Colombia Caribbean Coast to treat inflammatory and infectious health issues. The aim of this work was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity of the total ethanolic extract obtained from the flowers of Cordia alba . The plant material was extracted by maceration with ethanol and the anti-inflammatory effect was evaluated using the in vivo model of TPA-induced mouse ear edema and MPO enzyme activity. Additionally, the scavenging activity of the DPPH and ABTS free radicals by the extract was determined. The antibacterial activity was assessed using the broth microdilution method. The total ethanolic extract of Cordia alba flowers decreased the edema and the MPO activity in the ear tissue and showed scavenging effects of the DPPH and ABTS free radicals. This extract also presented antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus .