Phytochemical Screening and Biological Studies on the Crude Methanol Extract of Cinnamon mercadoi, Vidal
Rosalinda C. Torres, Fe M. Sison1 and Mafel C. Ysrael2
Chemicals and Minerals Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute
Depatment of Science and Technology, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila
1Standards and Testing Division, Industrial Technology Development Institute
Depatment of Science and Technology, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila
2Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sto. Tomas
España, Manila, Philippines
corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
ABSTRACT
Cinnamon mercadoi Vidal (syn. C. celebicum Koord.) of the Lauraceae family is an endemic species in the Philippines. Phytochemical screening of the crude methanol extract of C. mercadoi indicated the presence of saponins, condensed tannins, an unsaturated lactone ring and leucoanthocyanins. The mean lethal dose (LD50) of the extract administered orally in male strong A mice is 5.2723 ± 0.2218 g/kg. Toxidrome ranged from decreased motor activity and respiratory rate, ptosis, hyperemia, diarrhea and death. Using the Plantar test method for evaluation of analgesic activity, the methanol extract of C. mercadoi produced 84.0% protection at 500 mg/kg while the positive control (aspirin) exhibited 72.07% protection at 300 mg/kg.
INTRODUCTION
Cinnamonium mercadoi Vidal (Lauraceae) is a large endemic tree with relatively thick aromatic bark. This plant is indigenous to the Philippines where it is named kalingag, kaningag, kalingad, kandoroma and kanilau (Fig. 1). Like other Cinnamon species, it is variable in height and in shape, size and texture of the leaves (Santos 1930). The appears to grow best in forests at low and medium. . . . . . . .
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