Anti-inflammatory activity of benzopyrones that are inhibitors of cyclo- and lipo-oxygenase.

The anti-inflammatory activity of three benzo-pyrones with prevalent lipooxigenase-inhibitory activity was studied using the Croton oil ear test in mice, in comparison with nordihydroguaieretic acid (NDGA) and indomethacin. Kaempferol, quercetin and NDGA possess a strong and prolonged anti-inflammatory effect, whereas the action of indomethacin appears relevant, but not long-lasting. In contrast the anti-inflammatory activity of esculetin is rather weak, but persistent