Cytotoxicity Effects of Brazilian and Paulista Arnica Extracts

Arnica is a very common phytotherapeutic agent in medical clinic in Brazil, because it has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and cicatrizant properties. It has been used to treat bruise, hematoma, contusion, sprain, edema, muscle ache, wounds, and against fatigue. Objective: Compare the cytotoxic effects (in vitro) of Brazilian arnica (Solidago microglossa) extract, Paulista arnica (Porophyllum ruderale) extract and of commonly used corticosteroids (Omcilon TM and Psorex TM). Methods: Each substance was applied to mucosa fibroblast cells (FMM1) cultures in conditioned media. The media were conditioned by placing the substances in contact with fresh culture medium for 24 h. The cytotoxicity analysis was performed using the MTT assay. Data were treated by ANOVA (P£0,05) and Tukey's test (P£0,05). Results: Arnica extracts were biocompatible presenting mitochondrial activity similar to the control group and corticosteroids stimulated more cell proliferation than the other groups.

Conclusion: Both kind of arnica are compatible with oral mucosa fibroblasts and tests in vivo should be carried out in order to analyze their anti-inflammatory and reparative properties.