Exploring Anti-Inflamatory Potential of Ethnomedicinal Plants: An Update

Abstract

Herb" has been derived from a Latin word "herba" which means herb. At present, herb alludes to different natural origin parts of the plant like seed, bark, root, rhizomes, stem, bud, flower, leaf and nonwoody plant. Medicinal plants have proved to be effective for their different purposes. Anti-inflammatory activity is shown by the plants that have the capability to synthesize variety of phytochemical compounds as secondary metabolites. By showing effects on body mechanics the herbs of natural origin reduce all types of inflammation. These herbs give relief from swelling, stiffness, joints pain and inflammation. Anti-inflammatory supplement as well as anti-inflammatory herbs decrease the level of prostaglandins which is chemical released by cells at sites of injury and also sensitize the nerve endings that cause pain. In different systems like Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, several medicinal plants were used for curing different human diseases. In this review an effort is being made to inquire anti-arthritic and antiinflammatory activity of medicinal herbal drugs.