Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Arquita ancashiana Nanoemulgel: In vitro and In vivo Evaluation

The present study investigates the anti-inflammatory potential of Arquita ancashiana extracts and their nano formulations. The ethanol and aqueous extracts were obtained using Soxhlet & maceration extraction methods respectively, yielding semi-solid dark green residues with a percentage yield of 20% and 20.5%, respectively. In membrane stabilization assay, the ethanol extract exhibited a higher stabilization effect (IC₅₀ = 475.76 μg/mL) in comparison to aqueous extract (IC₅₀ = 815.14 μg/mL), though both remained less potent than the standard Diclofenac sodium (IC₅₀ = 199.62 μg/mL). A nano emulsion of Arquita ancashiana was successfully formulated using a surfactant: co-surfactant ratio of 3:1, and thermodynamic stability studies confirmed its stability. Physicochemical characterization revealed optimal globule size (85.46–91.57 nm), high zeta potential (-14.7 to -38.5 mV), and favorable viscosity. The nano emulgel was evaluated using a carrageenan-induced paw edema model, demonstrating significant anti-inflammatory activity, though slightly less effective than Diclofam Gel. ELISA analysis revealed a marked reduction in TNF-α levels in the nano emulgel-treated group, further supporting its anti-inflammatory potential. These findings suggest that Arquita ancashiana nano emulgel could serve as a promising natural alternative for inflammation management.