Phytochemical Studies, Anti-Oxidant and Anti- Inflammatory Properties of Four Medicinal Plants

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disorder, is characterized by polyarthralgia and joint dysfunction resulting from autoimmune responses that target self-neoepitopes. These attacks lead to the activation of macrophages and other defense cells. By identifying these self-epitopes as biomarkers in RA, researchers have gained valuable insights into the disease’s pathogenesis. Over the years, research has focused on investigating the potential of medicinal plants as antiinflammatory agents. In this study, a hydroethanolic extract of Saraca asoca, Ficus benghalensis, Chenopodium album, and Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaves was prepared by Soxhlet apparatus. Various concentrations of extracts were utilized to assess phytochemical analysis, GC-MS, in-vitro anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. The highest scavenging potential was exhibited by Chenopodium album, as assessed by the DPPH assay (90.32 ± 3.2 %) and H2O2 (86.00 ± 1.94 %). Similarly, the Nyctanthes arbor-tristis showed (92.23 ± 0.83 %) inhibition in membrane stabilization assay, and (91.49 ± 1.03 %) in protein denaturation inhibition capacity. GCMS analysis showed various phytoconstituents in extracts. In order to confirm its therapeutic potential for treating RA, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis may be a better drug candidate that needs to be further researched for mechanistic studies.