Exploring the antiarthritic potential of Caralluma fimbriata: Phytochemical screening and preliminary observations in a rat model.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: Caralluma fimbriata is a traditional medicinal plant known for its diverse bioactive constituents including alkaloids, flavonoids, glycosides, and tannins. It has traditionally been used for treating inflammation-related conditions; however, its antiarthritic potential remains underexplored.

AIM OF THE STUDY: To evaluate the antiarthritic activity of the ethanolic extract of Caralluma fimbriata using in vitro and in vivo models.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

The ethanolic extract of C. fimbriata was prepared by continuous hot extraction and quantitatively analyzed for total phenolic and flavonoid content. The antioxidant potential was assessed using the DPPH assay, and the anti-inflammatory potential was evaluated through the inhibition of protein denaturation. Antiarthritic activity was studied using Freund's Complete Adjuvant (FCA) and formaldehyde-induced arthritis models in Wistar rats. Histopathological and radiographic analyses were conducted to confirm these in vivo findings. LC-MS analysis was performed to identify the key phytoconstituents.

RESULTS

The extract contained 1.03 % phenolic compounds (gallic acid equivalent) and 1.377 % flavonoids (quercetin equivalent). LC-MS revealed the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. The extract demonstrated significant antioxidant activity (IC50 = 340.42 μg/mL) and effectively inhibited protein denaturation. In vivo studies showed a significant reduction in paw edema and arthritis scores (p < 0.05) at 400 mg/kg. The hematological parameters were restored to normal levels. Histopathology confirmed the preservation of joint integrity, and X-ray analysis indicated reduced bone erosion and soft tissue swelling.

CONCLUSION

The ethanolic extract of Caralluma fimbriata exhibits significant antiarthritic potential, likely due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytoconstituents. Further studies are recommended to validate these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms.