Phytochemical screening and anti-inflammatory activity of the aqueous extract of Cordyline fruticosa leaves used in Côte d’Ivoire in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia

Abstract

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common benign tumor in adult men. This pathology creates a real public health problem today and is frequently associated with chronic prostatic inflammation. The aim of this study was to carry out a phytochemical screening of the aqueous extract of Cordyline fruticosa leaves and to assess its anti-inflammatory activity. The aqueous extract of Cordyline fruticosa was obtained after decoction and its anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg bw in Wistar rats using carrageenan. The results showed that the aqueous extract of C. fruticosa contains phenolic compounds, saponosides, alkaloids, sterols and polyterpenes. Diclofenac and aqueous extract of C. fruticosa at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg bw recorded respective edema inhibition percentages of 62.18±1.31%, 56.29±3.04% and 58.93±1.50% at the sixth hour. These results would explain the use of this plant for pain relief in benign prostatic hyperplasia.