Evaluation of the anti-inflammatory and HRBC membrane stabilization potential of Kopsia fruticosa (Roxb.) A. DC

Inflammation is a complex biological response to harmful stimuli, playing a crucial role in various diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune disorders. Natural plant-derived compounds have been explored for their potential to mitigate inflammation with minimal side effects. Kopsia fruticosa, a medicinal plant from the Apocynaceae family, has been traditionally used for treating inflammation-related ailments. This study evaluates the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of ethanolic and aqueous extracts of K. fruticosa leaves and stems using protein denaturation inhibition, antiproteinase activity, and heat-induced hemolysis assays. The ethanolic extract of K. fruticosa leaves demonstrated the highest inhibition of protein denaturation (IC₅₀ = 100.37 ± 2.91 µg/ml) and proteinase activity (IC₅₀ = 407.88 ± 9.34 µg/ml). Similarly, the ethanolic extracts exhibited superior membrane stabilization properties against heat-induced hemolysis. These results suggest that K. fruticosa possesses mild anti-inflammatory properties, likely due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins, and sterols. Further studies are needed to isolate and characterize these compounds for potential therapeutic applications in managing inflammatory disorders.