Exploring the Synergistic Anti-Arthritic Effects of Boswellia serrata and Inula racemosa in CFA-Induced Inflammatory Arthritis: An In-vivo study

Abstract Background: Herbal remedies such as Boswellia serrata and Inula racemosa have been traditionally employed in the management of inflammatory disorders, notably arthritis. However, the combined efficacy of these botanicals and their potential interactions remain insufficiently elucidated. Objectives: To investigate the phytochemical profiles and anti-arthritic potential of Boswellia serrata and Inula racemosa, individually and in combination, employing LC-MS, FTIR spectroscopy, and the CFA-induced arthritis model in Wistar rats. Methods: Phytochemical characterization was performed using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The in vivo anti-arthritic activity was assessed in Wistar rats via the Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis model. Hematological and biochemical parameters were evaluated, and radiographic imaging was utilized to assess joint morphology. Results: LC-MS analysis identified key constituents including boswellic acid derivatives (KBA, AKBA, α-BA, β-BA, AB-BA) and sesquiterpene lactones (alantolactone, iso-alantolactone). FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of characteristic functional groups consistent with these phytoconstituents. Boswellia serrata (50 mg/kg) exhibited pronounced anti-inflammatory effects, whereas Inula racemosa did not demonstrate comparable activity. Notably, their combination resulted in an antagonistic interaction, diminishing the efficacy observed with Boswellia serrata alone. Hematological analysis revealed reductions in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in the combination group, suggestive of microcytic anaemia. Biochemical assays indicated reduced levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), and serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), implying hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits. Radiographic examination confirmed preservation of joint architecture without evidence of cartilage erosion or bony deformities in treated cohorts. Conclusion: Boswellia serrata demonstrated superior anti-arthritic efficacy as a monotherapy. Its combination with Inula racemosa appears to exert a counterproductive interaction, potentially of pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic nature. Further molecular and clinical investigations are warranted to elucidate these interactions and optimise their therapeutic potential in arthritis management.