Phytochemical Screening and Antipyretic Effect of Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. (Zingiberaceae) Rhizome

Aims: To investigate the antipyretic effect of ethanol extract of Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. (Zingiberaceae) rhizome in animal model. Study Design: Extraction of plant constituents and evaluation of elevated body temperature lowering activity. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacy, North South University, Dhaka between October 2012 and August 2013. Methodology: We have performed preliminary phytochemical screening and evaluated antipyretic activity of ethanol extract of the rhizome of Curcuma zedoaria by yeast-induced pyresis method. Ethanol extract of Curcuma zedoaria rhizome was administered to healthy mice. Results: The results showed that the ethanol extract of Curcuma zedoaria significantly reduced yeast-induced elevated body temperature in mice in a dose dependent manner and the antipyretic effect at a dose of 750 mg/kg was comparable to that of the standard antipyretic drug paracetamol (10 mg/kg). Preliminary phytochemical screening of ethanol extract showed presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, terpinoids, carbohydrates and steroids as major constituents in Curcuma zedoaria extract some of which may possess antipyretic activity. Conclusion: The results justify the traditional use of the ethanol extract of Curcuma zedoaria in the treatment of fever.