Anti-arthritic activity of standardised extract of Phyllanthus amarus in Freund's complete adjuvant induced arthritis

Aim of the studyPhyllanthus amarus Schum. and Thonn. (PA) (Euphorbiaceae) is a herb which is reported to have anti-inflammatory activity. In view of its potent anti-inflammatory activity, the present study was designed to evaluate its anti-arthritic activity.Materials and methodsThe standardized aqueous extract of P. amarus extract (PAE) (2.5% Phyllanthin and hypophyllanthin) was tested against Freund's complete adjuvant (FCA) induced arthritic rats. Arthritis assessment, paw volume, joint diameter, mechanical hyperalgesia and nociceptive threshold were measured. On day 28, the animals were sacrificed, tibiotarsal joint was extracted for histopathology.ResultsPAE significantly decreased the arthritis which was evident with arthritis index, paw volume and joint diameter. It also significantly increased the mechanical hyperalgesia and nociceptive threshold. The histopathology also revealed the control in inflammation with PAE.ConclusionThe present study is suggestive that PAE has prominent anti-arthritic activity which may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory activity.