Chemical Characterization And Evaluation Of Antipyretic Properties In Natural Medicinal Mud
Abstract
Background: Natural medicinal mud, also known as therapeutic mud or peloid, has long been used for its medicinal properties, especially in treating ailments such as fever, joint pain, and skin conditions. However, limited scientific studies have analyzed its bioactive chemical components and the mechanisms underlying its therapeutic effects, particularly antipyretic properties.
Objective: This study aims to perform a comprehensive chemical characterization of medicinal mud and assess its antipyretic effects using experimental models.
Methods: Sample Preparation: The medicinal mud was air-dried for seven days, ground, and extracted using methanol and ethyl acetate. Extraction was followed by filtration and concentration with a rotary evaporator at 40°C.
Chemical Analysis: Elemental analysis using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) and Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) revealed the presence of essential minerals, including Calcium (1450 mg/kg), Magnesium (1200 mg/kg), Iron (85 mg/kg), and Zinc (15 mg/kg). Additional analyses through GC-MS, HPLC, and FTIR identified bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolics.
Antipyretic Evaluation: Male Wistar rats were used to evaluate the antipyretic efficacy. Fever was induced using Brewer’s yeast, and medicinal mud extract was administered in doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg. Temperature changes were monitored for four hours post-treatment.
Results: The highest dose (400 mg/kg) of medicinal mud extract resulted in a significant reduction in body temperature, similar to the standard antipyretic drug (paracetamol). The presence of phenolics and terpenes identified through GC-MS and HPLC, such as quercetin and gallic acid, contributes to these effects.
Conclusion: The study confirms that medicinal mud contains bioactive compounds with significant antipyretic effects, supporting its traditional use in fever treatment. Further research is recommended to isolate individual compounds and assess their efficacy through clinical trials.
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