Evaluation of the In vitro Anti-inflammatory Activity of Ethanolic and Aq-ethanolic Extracts of Gum Resins ʻUṣāra Raywand (Rheum australe D. Don), Ushuq (Ferula ammoniacum [D. Don] Spalik), and Anzarūt (Astragalus sarcocolla Dymock.)

Background: Inflammation is a primary cause of disease and a core target in many traditional Unani remedies. Gum resins such as Uṣāra Raywand , Ushaq and Anzarūt from Rheum australe , Dorema ammoniacum and Astragalus sarcacola , respectively, are used in Unani medicine for their demulcent, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory actions. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to validate its traditional use by assessing in vitro anti-inflammatory activity. Materials and Methods: Gum-resins were collected from the market and processed for extraction separately through the cold maceration method in solvents Ethanol and Hydro alcoholic (ethanol) (1:1) solution for 48 h at room temperature. The anti-inflammatory activity was determined using the Protein Denaturation and RBC Membrane Stabilization Assay. Results: The inhibition percentage of egg albumin(protein) denaturation by all extracts was found in a concentration-dependent manner. Usara raywand hydro alcoholic extract (UREtOH) showed comparable results with the standard diclofenac sodium. All other extracts showed satisfactory activity. The inhibition percentage of lysis of erythrocyte membrane by all extracts was found in concentration concentration-dependent manner. Ushuq hydro alcoholic extract (UQEtOH) showed comparable results with diclofenac sodium. All other extracts showed satisfactory activity. Conclusion: The study findings revealed that the gum resins could be potentially used as a natural anti-inflammatory drug, as claimed by Unani physicians.