Paper Contents
Abstract
AbstractJoint pain and arthritis are chronic conditions affecting millions worldwide, often leading to reduced mobility and quality of life. Current treatment strategies involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and disease-modifying agents, which are often associated with side effects and limited efficacy in some cases. The search for alternative natural remedies has led to an increasing interest in the latex of Calotropis species (C. procera and C. gigantea), which has been extensively used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.This study explores the potential of Calotropis latex as a natural remedy for joint pain and arthritis. Phytochemical analysis of the latex revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, Terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, which are known for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic activities. The anti-inflammatory activity of Calotropis latex was evaluated in animal models of arthritis, including carrageen an-induced paw edema and collagen-induced arthritis. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in joint swelling, inflammatory cytokines (TNF-, IL-1, and IL-6), and oxidative stress markers.Further, the latex was tested for its analgesic properties using thermal and mechanical nociception models. The findings showed that Calotropis latex effectively alleviated pain, suggesting its potential as a natural analgesic. Molecular studies indicated that the bioactive compounds in the latex inhibited Cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing the production of prostaglandins responsible for inflammation and pain. Additionally, antioxidant assays revealed the latex's capacity to neutralize free radicals, further supporting its role in managing oxidative stress associated with arthritis.The safety profile of Calotropis latex was assessed through cytotoxicity studies on fibroblast and chondrocyte cell lines, as well as acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies in animal models. Results indicated that the latex exhibited low toxicity at therapeutic doses, making it a promising candidate for long-term use.This study highlights the therapeutic potential of Calotropis latex as a natural remedy for joint pain and arthritis. Its dual anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, combined with antioxidant activity, position it as an effective alternative to conventional therapies. However, further research is needed to isolate specific bioactive compounds, optimize formulations for clinical use, and evaluate its efficacy in human clinical trials.Keywords: Calotropis latex, joint pain, arthritis, natural remedy, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, oxidative stress, traditional medicine, phytochemicals, Cyclooxygenase inhibition.
Copyright
Copyright © 2025 Dr. Sanjay Kumar Acharya . This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
