Pharmacological Evaluation of Tamarindus indica Leaf Extract: Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, and CNS Depressant Effects

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Background: Tamarindus indica leaves have been traditionally used to manage pain, inflammation, and disorders of the nervous system. Different parts of plants—including leaves, fruit pulp, bark, and seeds—are traditionally used to treat fever, gastrointestinal disorders, inflammation, pain, and various infections. Scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited, prompting an evaluation of their pharmacological activities in experimental models. Aim: The present study aimed to evaluate the pharmacological effects of Tamarindus indica leaf extract, specifically its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and central nervous system (CNS) depressant activities, in order to assess its potential therapeutic applications. Methods: Fresh leaves of T. indica were collected from the campus of the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. An aqueous extract of T. indica leaves was administered to mice at doses of 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg. Analgesic activity was assessed using the acetic acid–induced writhing test. Anti-inflammatory effects were measured through carrageenan-induced paw oedema. Central nervous system (CNS) depressant activity was examined using the Open Field and Hole Cross tests to determine changes in locomotor and exploratory behaviours. Results: The extract produced significant, dose-dependent analgesic effects, with 100 mg/kg showing 77.94% inhibition of writhing, comparable to the standard drug (83.33%). Anti-inflammatory activity also increased with dose and time, with notable suppression of paw oedema at later phases of inflammation. In CNS activity tests, both doses—particularly 100 mg/kg—significantly reduced movement and exploratory behaviours, indicating strong CNS depressant action. Conclusion: T. indica leaf extract exhibits potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and CNS depressant properties in mice. These effects may involve modulation of inflammatory pathways and central neurotransmitter systems such as GABA. The results support traditional uses of the plant and highlight its potential for future development of natural therapeutic agents. Further studies are needed to identify active compounds and clarify their mechanisms of action.

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