Antiinflammatory activity of americanin A

Americal A from the seeds of Phytolacca americana, was investigated for the antiinflammatory activity. The compound significantly inhibited edema induction, granuloma formation, arthritis induction and leucocyte emigration in CMC-pouch. But its anticarrageenin activity was not exhibited in adrenalectomized rats. These findings together with decrease in the contents of ascorbic acid and cholesterol in adrenals by administration of the compound suggest that its activity is mediated through stimulation of the pituitary-adrenal axis. The acute toxicity of the compound is very weak and gastric ulceration was not produced by the compound.