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Dr. Dhanapal Venkatachalam
Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate antipyretic activity of crude methanol extract of Zizyphus jujuba leaves. Z.jujuba commonly called, Red date or Chinese date or Bera (Pushto), belonging to family Rhamnaceae, is used primarily for its fruits. Jujube, a delicious fruit, is an effective herbal remedy improving stamina and muscular strength and aids weight gain, strengthens liver function and increases immune system resistance. Methodology: The anti-pyretic activity of methanolic extract of Zizyphus jujuba Lam leaves was evaluated to Brewer’s yeast induced pyrexia in rats with respect to control group. Results: In the first hour, the antipyretic effect of methanol extract of Zizyphus jujuba (200 and 400 mg/kg) was significant (p<0.05, and p <0.01 respectively). The results suggests that Zizyphus jujuba at a dose of 200mg/kg caused a highly significant reduction at third hour (p<0.001). However, the effect increases significantly at the dose of 400 mg/kg having (p<0.01) at first, second and fourth hour. The antipyretic effect was comparable with that of a standard Paracetamol. Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that the MEZJ has better potential against Pyrexia which supports the traditional claims in folklore medicine. Phytochemical investigation suggests the presence of saponin in the leaves which may be responsible for the anti-ulcer activity. Key words: Zizyphus jujuba, Antipyretic activity, Brewer’s yeast, Methanolic extract