Abstract

Abstract : In the present work the aqueous extracts of leaves of Calotropis procera L.,Mangifera indica L. ,Nyctanthes arbortris L. and Saraca asoka L. were studied for its in vitro anti-arthritic activity by inhibition of protein denaturation and membrane stabilizing assay. The methotrexate was used as standard drug which is commonly used for inflammatory disorders like Rheumatoid arthritis. The low dose or weekly dose of methotrexate used as monotherapy or in combination with other drug is 10 to 25 mg/wk.The percentage of protein denaturation and membrane stabilization for aqueous extracts were done at different concentrations (100,200,400,800,1000 μg/ml).In highest concentration (1000 μg/ml) Calotropis procera L.,Mangifera indica L. ,Nyctanthes arbortris L. and Saraca asoka L showed (70.31 ±1.16, 45.31 ±1.99, 50.00 ±1.15, 65.62 ±1.16) significant protein inhibition and membrane stabilizing acitivity (65.62 ±3.38, 40.62 ±0.75, 59.37 ±1.62, 71.87 ±1.46) compared with methotrexate (100 μg/ml) shows (87.50±7.02) protein inhibition and membrane stabilizing acitivity (81.25±3.51) respectively. Out of four aqueous extracts Calotropis procera L and Saraca asoka L showed significant anti-arthritic activity compared to methotrexate. Further in-depth studies on these plants and their combinations in different dosage form can result in a cost effective anti-arthritic herbal therapy or supplement therapy towards better healthcare of human society. All these plants can bring natural compounds with significant anti-arthritic effects.