RESUMO
The antiarthritic activity of some bioactive extracts of fenugreek seeds and Liquorice roots and the whole coriander fruit powder were tested in rats in which adjuvant arthitis was induced in comparison with two synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs. The results of the tested natural agents showed a significant inhibition of the inflammed regions with different degrees. The highest inhibition was due to the petroleum ether extract of fenugreek [67%] followed by the aqueous methanolic extract of liquorice [65%]. Biochemically administration of the natural agents or reference drugs to arthritic rats produced pronounced improvement of the level of certain biochemical parameters reflecting the arthritic state in rate; such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and serum seromucoids, copper, fibrinogen, albumin and albumin: globulin ratio. Nutritionally arthritic rats lost weight significantly if compared with control normal ones. Administration of urbason retard to arthritic rats produced a significant reduction in body weight and food efficiency ratio if compared to control arthritic, while aqueous methanolic extract of fenugreek produced a significant increase in body weight. No significant changes in total food intake were noticed among the different groups receiving the tested agents