development and evaluation of some phytopharmaceuticals for certain inflammatory conditions

Abstract

Inflammation is currently treated with NSAIDs but, the risk of blood clots, incidence of heart attacks, and strokes are increased by these synthetic medications. Therefore, the development of potent anti-inflammatory drugs from natural sources with fewer side effects is very essential. Medicinal plants play an important role in curing many diseases associated with inflammation among other natural products. Hence, the current research work was envisaged to develop a polyherbal formulation comprising of medicinal plants claimed for anti-inflammation effect for better efficacy and fewer side effects. To achieve these attributes, the formulation was selected based on property of extract, route of administration, desired drug release profile and patient compliance. Hence, hydrogel was formulated to incorporate the selected extracts. The objectives of the present study were standardization of Berberis aristata root (Family: Berberidaceae), Rubia cordifolia root (Family: Rubiaceae) and Boswellia serrata gum (Family: Burseraceae), preparation and evaluation of selected crude drugs extracts and formulation of polyherbal gel. A HPLC method was developed and validated for the simultaneous estimation of marker compounds (Berberine, Rubiadin and 3-O- acetyl-11-keto-and#946;-boswellic acid (AKBA)). The 32 factorial design was used to optimize the final formulation. Polymer (carbopol 934) and propylene glycol (as a penetration enhancer) was selected as independent variables while viscosity (m.Pas), % in vitro release of Berberine, Rubiadin and AKBA as dependent variables based on the preliminary studies. A total of 9 experimental runs were formulated and evaluated. Gel formulation was optimized by design of experiment approach using Design expert version 13. The developed formulation was validated by graphical method and the formulation was validated for selected criteria. The optimized formulation showed viscosity 39568 m.Pas, content of Berberine (0.48 mg), Rubiadin (0.42 mg) and AKBA (0.51 mg). Accelerated stability study of the deve