Evaluation of Anti-Arthritic Activity of Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Acalypha fruticosa Forssk. on CFA-Induced Rheumatoid Arthritis in Wistar Rats

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation, cartilage destruction, and systemic complications. Conventional therapies such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologics are effective, but their use is limited by the related adverse effects and cost. Acalypha fruticosa Forssk., traditionally used for inflammatory disorders, contains flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds with reported antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Objectives: To evaluate the anti-arthritic potential of the ethanolic extract of Acalypha fruticosa leaves (EEAF) in Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced RA in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Arthritis was induced in rats by subplantar injection of CFA. Animals were divided into five groups ( n = 6): control, CFA-only, CFA + leflunomide (10 mg/kg), CFA + EEAF (100 mg/kg), and CFA + EEAF (300 mg/kg). Treatments were administered orally from days 22 to 42. Paw volume, body weight, arthritic scoring, and gait performance (Sciatic Functional Index) were recorded. Hematological, biochemical, and oxidative stress markers, C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), and antioxidant enzymes, were assessed. Radiographic and histopathological evaluations confirmed joint damage. Results: CFA-only rats showed significant paw swelling, elevated arthritic scores, oxidative imbalance, and joint destruction. EEAF produced dose-dependent improvements in clinical, biochemical, and functional parameters. The high dose (300 mg/kg) significantly reduced paw edema, normalized hematological indices, improved the antioxidant status, decreased CRP and RF levels, and preserved the joint architecture comparable to the effects of leflunomide. Histology confirmed reduced synovial hyperplasia, pannus formation, and cartilage erosion. Conclusion: EEAF demonstrated significant anti-arthritic, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects in CFA-induced arthritis, supporting its traditional use and potential development as a safe phytotherapeutic agent for RA.