Synergistic activities of ethanolic extracts of Jatropha tanjorensis leaves in conventional management of rheumatoid arthritis in the ankles of Wistar Rats

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common cause of chronic inflammatory joint disease. Plant extracts contain several bioactive factors which can re-establish the homeostasis of joints and joint cartilages. Objectives This study aim to evaluate synergism of ethanolic extracts of Jatropha tanjorensis leaves with Ibuprofen and Sulfasalazine as an antirheumatic agent. Methodology 25 adult male Wistar rats were subjected to different types of treatment (110 days); A: Positive control, B: Ibuprofen, Sulfasalazine and Low dose of extract, C: Ibuprofen, Sulfasalazine and Medium dose of extract, D: Ibuprofen, Sulfasalazine and High dose of extract, E: Normal control. Groups A-D were collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) models. One week before sacrifice, anterior-posterior and lateral diameters of both ankles, physical appearance and weight were assessed. After sacrifice, histological analysis of ankles using modified Mankin scoring system was done. Results Groups B, C and D had significant improvements in direct proportion to the dosages of J. tanjorensis extract administered. Increased doses slowed down the progression of cartilage destruction evidenced by prevention of joint swellings and preservation of chondrocytes and its histological features. Group A (positive control) exhibited cartilage destruction but no cartilage changes noted in group E (normal control). Conclusion We demonstrated synergistic effects of J. tanjorensis with Ibuprofen and Sulfasalazine combination therapy on animal model of collagen-induced rheumatoid arthritis. The evaluation of these effects were assessed by several means; physical appearance, assessment of weight, anterior-posterior and lateral diameters, and histological examination of both ankles of the animal that characterizes the originality of the study. Summary What is already known on this topic – The current therapeutic regimen for RA has some disadvantageous side effects. What this study adds – An alternative to the conventional management of RA with lower side effects. How this study might affect research, practice or policy – There is need to standardize dosages of newer herbs identified to be therapeutic.