Annona glabra crude extract ameliorates rheumatoid arthritis in experimental animals: Radiological and histopathological investigation

The plant Annona glabra L. (Annonaceae) has a history of traditional use in treating various ailments such as inflammation, joint pain, and arthritis. Despite this, there has been limited pharmacological research on its effectiveness for rheumatoid arthritis. This study explores the anti-arthritic properties and phytochemical composition of an aqueous-ethanolic extract (50:50) prepared from Annona glabra leaves. The study assessed the anti-arthritic potential through in vivo testing with Complete Freund Adjuvant models at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg. Additionally, both qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analysis were conducted to identify the various compounds present in the extract. The findings demonstrated a dose-dependent anti-arthritic response in the Complete Freund Adjuvant model, displaying enhanced protection against arthritic lesions and body weight changes. Furthermore, Annona glabra exhibited significant improvements in altered hematological parameters, rheumatoid factor, and mitigated radiographic and histopathological alterations. The quantitative phytochemical analysis identified phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the extract. These results support the traditional efficacy of Annona glabra as a promising anti-arthritic agent, potentially suitable for inclusion in herbal formulations for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.