Phytochemical evaluation and Pharmacological screening of Cuscuta reflexa roxburg on anti-arthritic activity

Abstract

Cuscuta reflexa Roxb, a rootless, leafless, twining annual parasite with a wide variety of species, is an extensive climber found in temperate and tropical regions. It is widely used in Ayurvedic (traditional medicine native to the Indian subcontinent) medicine to relieve and treat many diseases. There are numerous countries in which it is widely used for treating urination disorders, bilious disorders, diabetic disorders, and inflammatory diseases, including Afghanistan, Malaysia, India, and China. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic properties of the methanolic extract of Cuscuta reflexa Roxburg. A variety of phytoconstituents are found in it, such as alkaloids, tannins, coumarins, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and saponins. These phytoconstituents are screened by various conformation tests. The anti-inflammatory properties were evaluated in vivo in rats using CFAComplete Fruend’s adjuvant induced polyarthritis model. This study shows that methanolic extract at a concentration of 400mg/kg inhibits arthritic activity. This result was compared with the standard drug, prednisolone 5mg/kg. The anti-arthritic activity of Cuscuta reflexa Roxberg was evaluated by considering paw volume, paw thickness and body weight. Visual criteria were used to monitor the morphological features of arthritis such as redness, swelling, erythema. The scores were recorded during these specific days of the project- 1, 4, 10, 14, 17 and 21. The test compound at 200mg/kg doesn’t show any anti-arthritic property, but at the dose of 400mg/kg it proved its significant action to reduce the inflammation and pain induced by complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA). Based on the systemic analysis, the extract maintained normal joint parameters and greatly restored the normal architecture of the joints in animals. Thus, Cuscuta reflexa Roxburg would be an interesting source for antiarthritic activity.