Anti-Inflammatory and Cytotoxic Effect of Nutmeg Based Gel

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the anti inflammatory and cytotoxicity of Nutmeg based gel.

Introduction: Nutmeg or Myristica fragrans is commercially widely used as a culinary product in the food industry. It also is known to have inflammatory action due to the presence of anti-inflammatory compounds called mono terpenes including terpene, pinene, sabinene, etc. Since it is a naturally obtained product, it is considered better than synthetic formulations in reducing inflammation.

Materials and Methods: The gel was formulated using the plant extract of Nutmeg and the anti inflammatory action was tested via (BSA) Albumin denaturation assay. Cytotoxic analysis was made using brine shrimp nauplii. Results were tabulated in Microsoft Excel Sheets and imported to SPSS software for obtaining graphs.

Result and discussion: There was less cytotoxic action with decreasing concentration and anti inflammatory activity was assessed and percentage inhibition rate was highest in concentration of 50 microliters . Less cytotoxic activity was seen in 5-10 microliters.

Conclusion: The result shows that Nutmeg based gel has high potential in anti inflammatory activity and shows less cytotoxic activity. Hence, this nutmeg derived gel can be used for dose dependent formulations of drugs targeting inflammation in the near future.

Clinical relevance: Nutmeg gel has been used since ancient times for dental problems in children due to the plethora of medicinal uses that it contains. This study will help us to scientifically prove a basis for this explanation and further bring out its clinical use in dentistry for diseases such as periodontitis, gingivitis, inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity, etc.

Future scope:In the light of the study performed, it is safe to use 5-10µl of this formulation for drug formulations.