Anti-arthritic activity of Indian monocellate cobra (Naja kaouthia) venom on adjuvant induced arthritis

The Indian Monocellate Cobra venom (NKV) showed anti-arthritic activity over FCA induced arthritis in male albino rats. NKV treatment (1/20th & 1/10th MLD doses × 13 days, i.p.) showed significant restoration in paw & ankle volume, paw weight. Urinary hydroxyproline, glucosamine, serum ACP, ALP and IL-10 level were restored significantly, due to NKV treatment, as compared with arthritic rats. NKV also showed significant protection against arthritis induced oxidative damages. Thus this study confirmed the scientific validation behind ancient belief and use of snake venom in arthritis as mentioned in Ayurveda.