A REVIEW ON ANTI-INFLAMMATORY POTENTIAL OF TERMINALIA ARJUNA AND ITS APPLICATION IN ORAL SUSPENSION FORMULATION

Abstract: Inflammation is a crucial defense mechanism, but chronic or unregulated inflammation can lead to several pathological conditions such as arthritis and cardiovascular diseases. While conventional anti-inflammatory drugs provide symptomatic relief, their prolonged use is associated with adverse effects, highlighting the need for safer alternatives. Terminalia arjuna (Roxb.) Wight & Arn., a medicinal plant from the Combretaceae family, has been extensively used in Ayurvedic medicine, especially for cardiovascular disorders. Its bark is rich in bioactive compounds like arjunic acid, arjungenin, flavonoids, tannins, and glycosides, which demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties. This review explores the phytochemical and pharmacological profile of T. arjuna, focusing on its anti-inflammatory mechanisms such as prostaglandin inhibition, cytokine modulation, and free radical scavenging. The formulation of T. arjuna into an oral suspension aims to improve patient compliance, particularly for pediatric and geriatric populations. An optimized oral suspension offers uniform dosing, palatability, and enhanced bioavailability. Preclinical studies confirm its therapeutic potential; however, standardized formulation protocols and comprehensive clinical trials are necessary for its integration into mainstream medicine. This review supports T. arjuna as a promising candidate for the development of effective, natural anti-inflammatory therapeutics in oral dosage form.