Formulation and evaluation of anti-arthritic potential of ointment based on flavonoids and tannins of Aristolochia longa against induced arthritis model in Wistar rats

Aristolochia longa, belonging to the Aristolochiaceae family, helps treatvarious diseases such as cancer, abdominal pain and upper respiratory tract infections. The present work aims to assess the anti-inflammatory activity of ointments based on the flavonoids and tannins of Aristolochia longa. The acute dermal toxicity has been evaluated using Wistar rats. Then, the formulated ointments were considered for physicochemical parameters and microbiological analysis. The stability study was conducted at 4°C, 25°C and 37°C during 28 days. However, the skin tolerance test of ointments was performed by measuring the primary irritation index. In vivo, the anti-arthritic potential of the formulations was evaluated by Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) induced arthritis method. The degree of inflammation and anti-arthritic effects were assessed by radiological and histological analysis of knee joints. The results revealed that the Lethal dose 50 (LD50) was more significant than 5000 mg/kg. The microbiological and physicochemical parameters of formulations were found to be satisfactory.The stability testshowed a stable homogenous appearance, and no pathogens were revealed. At the same time, the microbial parameters were discarded on the 28th day of exposure. The skin irritant effect indicated that the prepared formulations were safe. The radiological profile and histological analysis showed an anti-inflammatory effect in the treated group by F1 and F2 formulations, reducing infiltration cellular, pannus formation and bone erosion. Leaves and roots of A. longa can be used as plant remedies for Rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory diseases.