Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Arthritic Activity of Rhu Syrup, A Poly-Herbal Formulation

Abstract

Aim of study: To investigate anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity of Ayurvedic formulation (AF) in Carrageenan induced paw edema, cotton pellet granuloma and Freund’s complete adjuvant (FCA)-induced arthritis in rats.

Methods: Carrageenan is injected in subplantar region of left hind paw and inflammation is measured. Cotton pellets are inserted into the groin region of rats, and inflammation was measured using weight of granuloma formed. FCA is injected to female rats on day 1 and arthritis assessment was done by measuring – paw volume, joint diameter, thermal hyperalgesia, and body weight. On the final day of the study, serum, biochemical, in vivo anti-oxidant parameters, radiological and histopathological parameters were examined. AF was administered at the dose of 1.25 ml/kg and 2.50 ml/kg body weight.

Results: AF showed anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity in carrageenan-induced paw edema, cotton pellet granuloma and in FCA-induced arthritic rats respectively. There was decrease in paw volume, joint diameter, increase in paw withdrawal latency when compared to arthritic control group. AF (2.50 ml/kg and 1.25 ml/kg) exhibits significant (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively) anti-arthritic activity by decreasing levels of serum C-reactive protein (CRP), Rheumatoid factor (RF) and interleukin (IL-1β, IL-6). The altered biochemical (AST, ALT, and ALP) and anti-oxidant parameters (SOD, MDA and GSH) also confirmed the anti-arthritic activity and anti-oxidant activity. AF (1.25 and 2.50 ml/kg) and prednisolone (10 mg/kg) also inhibited joint destruction (histopathological and radiological analysis).

Conclusion: AF may be a potential preventive or therapeutic candidate for the treatment of inflammation and arthritis.