In the present study, the ethanolic extract of Barringtonia acutangula (L.) Gaertn. (Family: Lecythidaceae) were investigated for anti-inflammatory activity by HRBC method. The prevention of hypotonicity induced HRBC membrane lysis was taken a measure of anti-inflammatory activity. These extracts show biphasic effects. Their activities were compared with standard drug diclofenac. Barringtonia acutangula a widely growing plant has been reported to possess number of medicinal properties. The various parts of Barringtonia acutangula such as root, whole plant and seeds are documented to possess various medicinal properties. The findings of the study indicate that the ethanolic extract of Barringtonia acutangula possesses anti-inflammatory activity which is probably related to the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis. This is a possible rationale for its folkloric use as an anti-inflammatory agent.