Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antino Potentialities of Methanolic Extract of Memecylon umbellatum

The methanolic extract of leaves of Memecylon umbellatum (Melastomtaceae) was evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activity by determination of hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, total antioxidant capacity, assay of nitric oxide scavenging activity and reducing power test and in vivo antinociceptive effect in acetic acid induced writhing model in Swiss albino mice. The plant extract was also subjected for brine shrimp lethality bio-assay to evaluate its cytotoxic property. The results revealed the presence of pronounced antioxidant property as compared with ascorbic acid used as standard and a dose-dependent (250 and 500 mg/kg) analgesic effect. Investigation also showed that it has strong lelthality (LC₅₀ 1.178 μg/ml) against brine shrimp nauplii, Vincristine Sulphate was used as positive control. The antioxidant, antinociceptive and cytotoxic properties observed seem to be in good accordance with the traditional uses of Memecylon umbellatum.