Abstract

Aim: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of two Ayurvedic preparations (Rhumayog Forte: RF and Rhumasyl Gel: RG) commercially available for the treatment of musculoskeletal inflammation.
Methods: The anti-inflammatory activity of the test samples (RF & RG) were assessed in carrageenan-induced acute paw inflammation and complete Freund’s adjuvant-induced chronic inflammation in rats. Three oral doses (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) of RF was used and the gel was applied topically to swollen hind paw of test animals. Diclofenac sodium was used as standard. In vitro heat induced protein denaturation assay was also performed.
Results: RF significantly and dose dependently inhibited carrageenan-induced paw inflammation as compared to control. The combined effect of RF & RG was better in both acute and chronic condition and the effect at dose 300 mg/kg was comparable to that of the standard diclofenac (10 mg/kg) treated animals. RF at concentration 159.4 µg/ml exhibits 50% inhibition in heat induced protein denaturation.
Conclusion: These observations established the anti-inflammatory effect of both RF & RG and reaffirmed traditional Ayurvedic claims for their use in musculoskeletal inflammation.

Key words: Inflammation, Carrageenan, Complete Freund’s Adjuvant, Ayurvedic Taila, Ayurvedic Bhasmas