ANALGESIC AND ANTI INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITIES OF THE ETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF THE MUSHROOM GANODERMA APPLANATUM

Abstract

Objective: The ethanolic extract of the mushroom, Ganoderma applanatum was investigated for the presence of secondary metabolites, anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities. Material and Methods: The extract was subjected to phytochemical screening for the identification of secondary metabolites. Using intraperitoneal doses of 150, 300, 600 and 1200 mg/kg body weight, in vivo anti-inflammatory screening was carried out in rats using the rat paw oedema test while analgesic activity of the extract was done in mice using the hot plate test. Results: The study shows that the extract has an LD50 of 3273 mg/kg and the presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids and steroids. Saponins and tannins were absent. Dose and time dependent suppression of egg-white induced oedema in the rat paw test was observed, with maximum percentage suppression occurring at 600mg/kg (59.2%). The extract also significantly prolonged the reaction time in mice to noxious thermal stimuli. Conclusion: Ganoderma applanatum has potential as a source of useful analgesic and anti-inflammatory principles.