Ethyl Acetate Fraction of Sesbania grandiflora Roots Ameliorates Adjuvant-induced Arthritis by Suppressing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in Wistar Rats

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory state that damages the articular cartilage, which results in bone deformity and functional loss of joints, eventually causing extreme pain. The key concerns of the drugs currently prescribed for RA are low effectiveness and possible side effects. Therefore, an efficient, yet harmless substitute from herbal sources has gained the special focus of researchers. Sesbania grandiflora Linn is a vital medicinal herb, and the roots are used in traditional medicinal practices for treating arthritic conditions. Objectives: To scientifically validate the anti-arthritic effects of Sesbania grandiflora Linn. roots in Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-inflicted arthritic rodents. Methods: Arthritis was inflicted by subcutaneously injecting CFA (0.1 ml) into the plantar area of the rat's left hind paw. Rats were given oral doses of the ethyl acetate fraction of Sesbania grandiflora roots [EAFSGR] (100 & 200 mg/kg) and diclofenac sodium (4 mg/kg) starting on day 14 and continuing until day 28. Joint diameter, arthritic score, paw volume, thymus and spleen index, hematological variables, liver biochemical, and antioxidant markers were assessed. Further, the ankle joints were examined for radiological and histopathological alterations. Results: Rats treated with the EAFSGR revealed a significant diminution in the arthritic parameters. Further, radiological and histopathological analysis of EAFSGR treatment displayed a significantly reduced swelling and cartilage destruction. Conclusion: The observed experimental outcome may be ascribed to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of EAFSGR, which could probably be owing to the occurrence of flavonoids. The scientific evidence supporting the traditional use of Sesbania grandiflora roots to treat rheumatoid arthritis has been laid out in this study.