Agave sisalana, traditionally used in folk medicine for treating various ailments, discards 95% of its leaf biomass as waste. This study explores the potential of its sapogenin-rich residue, particularly hecogenin and tigogenin, for anti-inflammatory and analgesic uses. Steroidal saponins from sisal exhibit significant pharmacological benefits, and developing a topical cream from this extract could promote sustainable use of the discarded biomass, offering environmental and economic advantages.
Methods
The study used various in vitro and in vivo methods to assess the therapeutic potential of Agave sisalana extract (AFS). Ethanolic extracts were prepared via hydrolysis, yielding a sapogenin-rich fraction. The MTT assay tested cytotoxicity, while anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated through phagocytosis inhibition and erythrocyte membrane stabilization. In vivo tests included the formalin test for pain relief and carrageenan-induced edema for anti-inflammatory activity. A topical cream containing AFS was also tested against dexamethasone cream in a carrageenan-induced rat model for its anti-inflammatory effects.
Key Findings
- Cytotoxicity:
- The AFS showed no significant cytotoxicity on healthy cells, with cell viability remaining above 70%, even at the highest concentrations.
- Anti-Inflammatory Activity:
- Phagocytosis Inhibition: AFS demonstrated strong inhibition of phagocytosis in all tested concentrations, surpassing the positive control (PC).
- Erythrocyte Membrane Stabilization: AFS stabilized the erythrocyte membrane effectively, indicating potential lysosomal membrane stabilization, with significant anti-inflammatory activity in vitro.
- In Vivo Results:
- Formalin Test: AFS reduced pain sensitivity, particularly at 25 mg/kg, with a 51.92% inhibition in the neurogenic phase and 71.02% inhibition in the inflammatory phase.
- Carrageenan-Induced Edema: AFS at 25 and 50 mg/kg showed anti-inflammatory activity comparable or superior to dexamethasone in the chronic inflammation phase. In the acute phase, AFS demonstrated strong efficacy in reducing edema.
- Topical Cream:
- The AFS-based cream showed greater anti-inflammatory activity in the acute phase than dexamethasone, with significant reduction of inflammation at 1, 2, and 4 hours post-application. However, dexamethasone exhibited stronger effects during the chronic inflammation phase at 72 and 96 hours.
This research presents a novel application for Agave sisalana residues, showing that its steroidal sapogenin-rich extract (AFS) has potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The study’s novelty lies in its use of sisal leaf waste, contributing to both waste valorization and sustainable product development. However, the study’s limitations include the need for further pharmacological and toxicological studies to fully understand the mechanism of sapogenins and to assess long-term safety and efficacy. Additional clinical trials are required to translate these preclinical findings into practical medical applications.
Link to the study: https://tinyurl.com/m8mttv33
