Formulation and Evaluation of Polyherbal Pain Relief Gel for its Effect on Rheumatoid Arthritis

Background: Almost 1-3% of people worldwide suffer from arthritis. It is an autoimmune disease that can harm extra-articular organs in addition to joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is commonly treated with steroidal, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory, disease-modifying, antirheumatic, and immunosuppressive medications. These medications have the potential to cause several kinds of side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues, immunodeficiency, and humoral changes. Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine have been recognised as alternative treatments for arthritis. This study aims to develop a topical poly-herbal gel (containing extracts of ginger, garlic, clove, and eucalyptus) and evaluate it, as well as determine its ability to reduce inflammation in animals. The essential oils from the herbs were extracted using the hydro distillation method. Materials and Methods: To prepare the poly-herbal gel, PEG 400, Carbopol 934, and the appropriate amount of distilled water have been used. After the herbal extract and gelling part were properly mixed. The final formulation's pH was adjusted using triethanolamine. Results: Various physical tests were conducted on the produced gel like colour, appearance, pH, texture, and viscosity as well as primary skin irritation, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory tests in rats to be compared to the marketed product. The study observed that carrageenan significantly enhanced paw oedema and cellular infiltrates, whereas the test sample (a polyherbal gel including ginger, garlic, eucalyptus, and clove extract) significantly decreased paw oedema. Conclusion: In the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, the developed topical polyherbal gel may be a safe and effective alternative for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines; however, further study is required.