Anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and antispasmodic properties of Chromolaena odorata

A methanol extract of the leaves of Chromolaena odorata was evaluated for anti-inflammatory effects in the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model as well as for antipyretic activity in mice. The effects of the extract on intestinal transit of charcoal meal and castor oil-induced diarrhoea were also investigated. The extract (50-200 mg/kg) inhibited paw edema in rats and produced significant (p < 0.05) reduction in rectal temperature of mice rendered hyperthermic by yeast suspension. Antimotility and antidiarrhoeal effects were produced by the extract in intact mice. This study establishes the out-inflammatory, antipyretic, and antispasmodic properties of C. odorata.