Phytochemical, Physicochemical & Anti-Inflammatory Investigation Of Leaves And Root Of Lantana Camara Linn.

Abstract

The growing demand for safer and effective anti-inflammatory agents has renewed interest in medicinal plants. Lantana camara Linn., a widely distributed shrub from the Verbenaceae family, has long been used in traditional medicine for its diverse therapeutic benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical content, assess physicochemical properties, and determine the in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of methanol extracts from its leaves and roots. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids more abundant in the leaf extract all known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant roles. Physicochemical analysis, including tests like loss on drying, total ash, and extractive values, met WHO and Indian Pharmacopoeia standards, indicating good quality and purity of the plant materials. The anti-inflammatory activity was tested using the egg albumin denaturation assay. The leaf extract showed a maximum inhibition of 79% at 800 µg/mL, while the root extract reached 70% at the same concentration. Both results closely matched the standard drug diclofenac sodium. These findings highlight the significant anti-inflammatory potential of Lantana camara, particularly in its leaf extract, supported by rich phytochemical content and acceptable physicochemical standards, suggesting its promise in developing plant-based anti-inflammatory treatments.