Evaluating the Efficacy of a Ginger Extract-Infused Mustard Oil Transdermal Patch for Arthritis Management

Aim: The aim of this study is to develop and characterize a novel herbal transdermal patch containing mustard oil and ginger extract for the management of arthritis, addressing the significant pain and reduced quality of life associated with this chronic inflammatory condition. Materials and Methods: Various extraction methods, including water, alcohol, and mustard oil extraction, were employed to obtain ginger extract. These extracts underwent initial evaluation and subsequent in vitro anti-inflammatory testing. Transdermal patch formulations were developed using the oil-based ginger extract, with naproxen incorporated as a model drug. Parameters such as weight variations, folding endurance, tensile strength, and moisture content were rigorously assessed. In vitro drug permeability tests and ex vivo permeation tests were conducted to evaluate drug release characteristics, with Rhodamine B/Oil Red O Dye used as a tracer. Results: Water-extracted ginger showed reduced potency on the 14th day with some fungal growth, while the alcohol extract exhibited lower efficacy compared to the oil extract. Six distinct transdermal patch formulations were developed, with parameters such as weight variations, folding endurance, tensile strength, and moisture content meeting specified criteria. In vitro drug permeability tests and ex vivo permeation tests revealed a drug release range of 0.1 to 0.3 mm, a moisture content of 3%, a tensile strength of 1 pascal, and a drug release rate of 90%. Conclusion: The study demonstrates the successful development and characterization of a novel herbal transdermal patch containing mustard oil and ginger extract for arthritis management. Despite challenges with water-extracted ginger and lower efficacy of the alcohol extract, the oil-based ginger extract showed promising results. The formulated transdermal patch exhibited favourable drug release characteristics and can potentially offer an effective therapeutic option for arthritis patients.