Modulation of the oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine response by thymoquinone in the collagen induced arthritis in Wistar rats

► Thymoquinone eliminated the accumulation and activation of polymorphonuclear cells. ► TQ markedly inhibited clinical sign of joint swelling, enhanced antioxidant status. ► Thymoquinone suppressed the increase in LPO, NO and myeloperoxidase. ► Thymoquinone maintained the homeostasis in the cytokine imbalance. ► Thymoquinone was able to reverse histological changes observed in RA rats.