RESUMO
Aims: The present study was undertaken to explore in vivo antioxidant potential of ethanol extracts of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis leaf and stem in adjuvant induced arthritic rats. Methodology: Arthritis induced rats were administered with extract of Nyctanthes arbortristis leaf and stem. (150 mg/kg body Weight/rat/day for 30 days. Results: A significant decrease in paw edema was observed following oral administration of the leaf and stem extracts. A significant (p<0.05) increase in the level of tissue TBARS, GPx and catalase was seen in arthritis induced rats (group II) and NAT treated rats (group III and group IV) showed a significant decrease in lipid peroxides, GPx and catalase level to near normalcy. The activity of total tissue SOD was found significantly (p<0.05) low in arthritis induced rats (group II) while a substantial increase in the activity to near normal level was noticed in NAT administered rats. The alterations in hematological and other biochemical parameters were restored to near normal levels after a treatment period of 30 days. The structural changes of the tissues shows the therapeutic ability of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis stem and leaf in experimental animals which were further evidenced by histological observations made on the hind limb tissue. Conclusion: As Nyctanthes arbor-tristis is of natural origin, it is a safe and effective intervention for free radical mediated diseases.