PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF THE METHANOLIC EXTRACT OF MORINDA CITRIFOLIA FRUIT FOR ANTI ASTHMATIC, ANTI OXIDANT AND ANTI- INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITIES

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder characterized by airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and excessive mucus production. This study evaluated the anti-asthmatic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory potential of the methanolic fruit extract of Morinda citrifolia (noni), a medicinal plant widely used in traditional herbal medicine. Dried fruits were shade-dried, powdered, and extracted with methanol using a Soxhlet apparatus. The extract was investigated using in-vivo models including histamine aerosol-induced bronchoconstriction, milk-induced leukocytosis, and eosinophilia to assess anti-asthmatic activity. Antioxidant activity was determined by hydrogen peroxide scavenging and reducing power assays, while anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated through protein denaturation inhibition and red blood cell membrane stabilization methods. The extract was administered at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg. Results demonstrated significant bronchodilatory activity with reduced leukocyte and eosinophil counts, indicating notable anti-asthmatic effects. The extract also exhibited considerable free radical scavenging capacity and membrane stabilizing activity, confirming its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These pharmacological activities may be attributed to the presence of bioactive phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, and tannins. The findings support the traditional use of Morinda citrifolia and suggest its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for asthma and inflammatory disorders.