Researchers from Brazil, including teams from the Federal University of Grande Dourados (UFGD), the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), the State University of Campinas (Unicamp), and the State University of São Paulo (Unesp), have identified compounds in the leaves of the custard apple tree (Annona squamosa) that exhibit analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperalgesic, and anti-arthritic properties. These findings are based on the evaluation of the plant's methanolic extract and a substance named palmatine.
Annona squamosa, recognized for its medicinal use in various countries and traditional medicine for treating pain and arthritis, has demonstrated several pharmacological properties, including gastroprotective, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory actions. This positions it as a potential alternative to conventional anti-inflammatory medications, which may lead to complications like adrenal insufficiency and insulin resistance in long-term treatments.
Investigations involved administering the methanolic extract and palmatine to mice in several experimental models to assess their analgesic, antiarthritic, and anti-inflammatory capacities. The studies confirmed both the extract and palmatine's effectiveness in reducing pain and inflammation, with palmatine also showing properties that counteract hyperalgesia, potentially through the inhibition of pathways mediated by tumor necrosis factor.
Despite these promising results, further research is necessary to understand the therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action fully. Future studies should focus on evaluating the compounds' effects in different formulations, their pharmacokinetic properties, toxicity, and the doses required for clinical application.
The detailed findings of this research are available in the article titled "Analgesic and Anti-Arthritic Potential of Methanolic Extract and Palmatine Obtained from Annona squamosa Leaves," underscoring the need for additional studies to bridge the gap between experimental results and clinical practice.
Source: Abrafrutas