Screening of some pharmacological properties of Origanum majorana growing in Egypt

ABSTRACT

In the present study, hydroalcoholic extract of the aerial parts of Origanum majorana was prepared. Two oral dose levels [100 and 200 mg/Kg] were evaluated for the analgesic activity [using the hot plate test], the anti-inflammatory effect [using carrageenan-induced paw oedema test] and the antipyretic activity [on yeast-induced hyperthermia] in albino rats. Results revealed that in the hot plate test, O. majorana extract exerted a highly significant analgesic effect in a dose dependant manner similar to that obtained by paracetamol. The extract also reduced paw-oedema caused by carrageenan, this result was more obvious in rats treated with 200 mg/Kg. The tested extract in the two doses used exerted an antipyretic effect after 30 min of administration. More interesting results were observed in the group treated with 200 mg/Kg, in which their temperature was reduced significantly more than in paracetamol-treated group during 1 -2 hr post-drug administration. O. majorana extract also exerted a hepatoprotective effect in carbon tetrachloride liver -damaged rats. Both doses [100 and 200 mg /Kg] significantly reduced the elevated values of liver function tests [GGT, ALT and AST], triglycerides [TGs], and cholesterol. Kidney function tests [creatinine and urea] were also decreased significantly. O. majorana had an immuno-stimulating property, as it increased IgG levels in normal and liver damaged rats. It is concluded that Origanum majorana had many pharmacological activities including a novel immunostimulant effect, which warrants further detailed investigations