Anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects of hydroalchoholic extract of Nepeta menthoides on pain in aerial parts in male mice

The application of herbal plants instead of synthetic drugs has been increasing in recent years because of their lower side-effects and high varieties of efficient components. An investigation on antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Nepeta menthoides seems to be necessary due to the existence of its components. Materials and Methods: This study was done on 224 NMRI male mice weighing 20-25 g. Xylene-induced ear edema and Formalin test were used for demonstrating its anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects. Results: The hydroalcholic extract had no toxic effect. This study showed that Nepeta menthoides aerial parts have anti-inflammatory effect at all doses, particularly at dose of 2800 mg/kg and significantly decreased nociception in chronic phases. The dose of 2800 mg/kg had the most anti-nociceptive effect in chronic phases. Meanwhile, in the immersion test, nociception decreased at a dose of 1400 mg/kg significantly. Conclusion: Hydroalcoholic extract of Nepeta menthoides has anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects. These effects might be due to its Nepetalactone and 1,8 cineole components.