ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: This study involves the evaluation of Memecylon malabaricum Cogn. (Melastomataceae) leaves for antipsoriatic activity. METHODS: Aqueous extract, hydroalcoholic extract and their fractions of M. malabaricum leaves were evaluated for in-vivo antipsoriatic activity by mouse tail test and for in-vitro antipsoriatic activity using HaCaT cells, lipoxygenase inhibition and thymidine phosphorylase inhibition assays. Extracts and fractions were evaluated for total phenol and flavonoid contents. HPTLC was used for screening and fingerprint analysis of the extracts and active fraction. KEY FINDINGS: M. malabaricum hydroalcoholic extract (MMHA) and water fraction of MMHA (MMHAW) produced significant (P<0.05) percent orthokeratosis in the mouse tail test. All samples except MMHA showed a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in epidermal thickness in the mouse tail test when compared with control. Maximum activity against HaCaT cells was shown by chloroform fraction of MMHA (MMHAC). The M. malabaricum decoction (MMD) and water fraction of MMD (MMDW) showed equally good inhibition of lipoxygenase. In thymidine phosphorylase inhibition assay only MMD showed activity. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this investigation reveal that the leaves of M. malabaricum have good antipsoriatic potential, which provides scope for further detailed research in to this plant for psoriasis.
