Hydrolysable tannin-rich fraction from Terminalia chebula Retz. fruits ameliorates collagen-induced arthritis in BALB/c mice.

Terminalia chebula Retz. (Fam: Combretaceae) (TC) is widely used in traditional system for the treatment of fever, asthma, urinary diseases, and rheumatism. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the efficacy of hydrolysable tannin-rich fraction (HTF) isolated from TC fruits in collagen-induced arthritic BALB/c mice. Type II collagen-induced arthritis was attained in BALB/c mice. HTF treatment at three gradual doses (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) was started from 24th day on daily administration up to 4 weeks. Body weight, food intake, and increase in hind paw were monitored at weekly basis. At the end of the study, serum and joint tissues were estimated for proinflammatory cytokines and biochemical parameters and the hind limbs were removed for radiological and histopathological evaluations. Oral administration of HTF could significantly protect CIA in BALB/c mice by reducing paw volume, arthritic score, spleen index, serum and joint cytokine level, and biochemical markers. The anti-inflammatory efficacy of HTF was further demonstrated by morphological observation, histopathological , and radiological evaluations. HTF is a good therapeutic agent for the treatment of joint inflammatory condition, as its action is mediated through cytokine inhibition.