Comparative evaluation of immobilization activity of clove bud extract with lignocaine hydrochloride

The ethanolic extract of Syzygium aromaticum buds exhibited significant, dose-dependent immobilization activity in the earthworm model, attributable to the presence of secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids and resins, and principally to eugenol acting as a fast, sodium-channel-blocking agent. While lignocaine hydrochloride remained more efficient in terms of immobilization onset and duration of action, the comparative data obtained in this study lend scientific support to the traditional use of clove as a natural local anaesthetic and highlight its potential as an economical, plant-based alternative meriting further pharmacological and phytochemical investigation.

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