Synergistic Effect of Different Extracts of Asparagus officinalis (Asparagaceae), Garcinia travancorica (Clusiaceae) and Mucuna gigantea (Fabaceae) Extracts on Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory and Anti-arthritic Activities in Rats

Background: The arial part of Asparagus officinalis (A.O.) (Family: Asparagus) stem and seeds, leaf parts of Mucuna gigantea (M.G.) (Family: Fabaceae) and fruit rinds and arial part of Garcinia travancorica (G.T.) (Family: Clusiaceae) have long been used to treat joint pain. However, its preclinical efficacy for rheumatoid arthritis has not been pharmacologically evaluated. In the current study, extracts of A.O., M.G., and G.T. from petroleum ether, ethanolic extract, and aqueous extract were examined for their analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, and phytochemical properties. Materials and Methods: Rats' tail flick method was used to assess analgesic activity, carrageenan-induced paw oedema model was used to assess anti-inflammatory activity, and protein Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis model was used to assess anti-arthritic potential. Results: We observed that many extracts had anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic effects, and to a lesser extent, analgesic activities corresponding to the administered dose. The CFA model's findings showed improved defence against arthritic lesions and changes in body weight. Additionally, rheumatoid factor, altered WBCs count, and histological and radiographic changes were all markedly improved by M.G., G.T., and A.O. Conclusion: All the three plants extract when given together, supports traditional combinatorial use of M.G., G.T. and A.O. as potent analgesic, a potential anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic polypharmacy for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.