Evaluation of Anti-arthritic and in-vitro Anti-inflammatory activity of Vaisvanara Churna

Vaisvanara Churna used traditionally for the treatment of Amavata (Rheumatoid arthritis), Shotaprasamana (Anti-inflammatory) and as Saraka (Laxative).

Aim of the study is to evaluate anti arthritic activity and in vitro anti-inflammatory potential of Vaisvanara Churna in experimental animals.

In-vitro anti-inflammatory activity of aqueous extract of Vaisvanara Churna (100-500 μg/ml) was evaluated by using membrane stabilization methods. Anti arthritic activity was evaluated by using 0.1 ml of Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) injected into sub plantar surface of left hind paw of each wistar rat on day 1 followed by treatment with Vaisvanara Churna at various dose levels (450, 900, and 1800 mg/kg b.w) and standard drug Prednisolone (5 mg/kg) for 21 days. The following parameters namely change in the body weight of animals, paw volume, ankle joint thickness were measured at 0, 3, 8, 17 & 21 day intervals and radiographic changes were assessed. In addition to this, response to painful stimuli by application of forced pressure was measured by using Pressure Application Measurement (PAM) method.

In-vitro anti-inflammatory activity Vaisvanara Churna exhibited dose dependent membrane stabilizing activity. Treatment with Vaisvanara Churna showed significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of paw edema, reduction in ankle joint thickness and increase in the body weight of wistar albino rats was observed. There is a significant increase (p < 0.001) in the latency of limb withdrawal response, reduction in the organ indices (spleen and thymus) were noted.

This study demonstrates that Vaisvanara Churna possesses in vitro anti inflammatory and anti-arthritic potential and supports its folklore use in the treatment of arthritis.