Aloe vera, as a biological vehicle for hydrocortisone 21-acetate, was tested topically and systemically against acute inflammation. Systemically, the combination of A. vera and hydrocortisone produced a maximum 88.1% inhibition of edema. Polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration was reduced 91.1%. The topical inhibition of edema peaked at 97%. The possibility that A. vera has significant potential as a biologically active vehicle for steroids is discussed.

An Aloe vera extract was prepared with 50% ethanol. The resultant supernatant and precipitate were tested for anti-inflammatory activity using the croton oil-induced ear-swelling assay. The supernatant fraction decreased inflammation, when applied topically, by 29.2%, and the precipitate decreased inflammation by 12.1%. The authors have shown that the anti-inflammatory activity (inhibitory system) resides in the supernatant of a 50% ethanol extract.

The authors review rheumatoid arthritis with focus on two pedal manifestations, rheumatoid nodules and digital deformities. The prevalence, presentation, and diagnostic features concerning these entities are discussed, and three case studies are presented.