Investigation of the anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effect of the hexane fraction of the methanolic extract from the brazilian stingless bee propolis (Melipona quadrifasciata)

Abstract

The term inflammation refers to tissue damage with consequent changes in circulation and cell components, which generate redness, edema, heat, pain, and functional loss. The sensation of pain is called nociception, originating from the processing and encoding of harmful stimuli. To combat these processes when they become pathological, new substances are sought, especially those derived from natural compounds, such as propolis. This study aims to evaluate the effects on pain and inflammation in house mice when using hexane fraction from the Brazilian stingless bee (Melipona quadrifasciata) propolis extract. Male house mice (Mus musculus), were used in two experimental models. In the Hot Plate test, the animals were placed on a heated, heated surface and quantified, in seconds, the paw withdrawal latency time in face of the thermal stimulus for the analysis of hyperalgesia. In the evaluation of paw edema, inflammation was induced through the intraplantar injection of carrageenan, and edema was measured with a caliper to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity. In the hot plate, the extract did not show, statistically, a difference for the control group, and showed difference when compared to morfina. In the paw edema test, the extract showed a statistically significant difference when compared to the carrier in t=0,5h (11,01%) and t=2h (11,97%). This study presents data that reiterates the anti-inflammatory potential of the extract, althought the antinociceptive effect was not observed in the thermal hypersensitivity test. Thus, it reinforces the need for further studies and the appreciation of the use of alternatives to help treatments for pain and inflammation.