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Abstract

Inflammation is a complex physiological response underlying a wide range of acute and chronic diseases. Conventional anti-inflammatory therapies, including NSAIDs and corticosteroids, are effective but associated with adverse effects and long-term complications. This review explores the potential of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (NAT), a traditional medicinal plant widely used in Ayurveda, as a natural alternative for anti-inflammatory treatment. NAT contains diverse phytoconstituents such as iridoid glycosides (e.g., arbortristoside-A), flavonoids (quercetin, astragalin), phenolic acids, tannins, and essential oils that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. These compounds modulate key inflammatory pathways by inhibiting COX and LOX enzymes, suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, TNF-?), and scavenging reactive oxygen species.Formulation strategies including gels, tablets, and nanoformulations have been explored to enhance the solubility, bioavailability, and stability of NAT extracts. Evaluation methods?such as physicochemical assessments (pH, viscosity, spreadability), in vitro drug release, stability studies, and animal models?confirm the therapeutic efficacy and safety of NAT-based preparations. While preclinical studies demonstrate promising dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity comparable to standard drugs, clinical data remain limited. Challenges such as batch variability, lack of phytochemical standardization, and limited regulatory recognition need to be addressed.The future of NAT lies in integrating advanced drug delivery systems (e.g., nanoparticles, transdermal patches), synergistic herbal-synthetic combinations, and clinical trials to validate its use as a modern phytopharmaceutical. This review provides a foundation for further research and development toward evidence-based utilization of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis in anti-inflammatory therapy.

Keywords

Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, anti-inflammatory, herbal gel, Phytopharmaceuticals, cyclooxygenase inhibition, nano formulation, traditional medicine

Introduction

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Inflammation is a complex biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli such as pathogens, damaged cells, or irritants. It serves as a protective mechanism intended to remove injurious stimuli and initiate the healing process. However, chronic or excessive inflammation contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous disorders including rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, and cancer [1,2]. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids are commonly used to manage inflammation. Despite their efficacy, long-term use of these agents is associated with a spectrum of adverse effects such as gastrointestinal ulcers, renal dysfunction, cardiovascular risks, and immunosuppression [3]. The development of drug resistance and contraindications in certain populations necessitates safer alternatives. Herbal medicines have garnered global interest due to their minimal side effects, bioavailability, and cost-effectiveness. Phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenes, and phenolic compounds are known to exhibit significant anti-inflammatory properties through various mechanisms including inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX), suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and free radical scavenging [4]. Commonly referred to as “night-flowering jasmine” or “Parijat,” Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (NAT) belongs to the Oleaceae family and is distributed across India and Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, NAT has demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antipyretic, and hepatoprotective effects [5,6]. These properties are attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, which includes flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, tannins, and saponins [7]. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the phytochemical profile, pharmacological properties, formulation, and evaluation of anti-inflammatory gel derived from Nyctanthes arbor-tristis. Special focus is placed on the preparation and effectiveness of NAT-based herbal gel as an alternative to conventional topical anti-inflammatory agents.

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Rutuja Ishwarkar
Corresponding author

B. Pharmacy Final Year, Gawande College of Pharmacy S. Kherda, Buldhana, Maharashtra, India.

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Sakshi Londhe
Co-author

B. Pharmacy Final Year, Gawande College of Pharmacy S. Kherda, Buldhana, Maharashtra, India.

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Rupali Billari
Co-author

B. Pharmacy Final Year, Gawande College of Pharmacy S. Kherda, Buldhana, Maharashtra, India.

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Nikita Shingne
Co-author

B. Pharmacy Final Year, Gawande College of Pharmacy S. Kherda, Buldhana, Maharashtra, India.

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Priya Dandekar
Co-author

Asst. Prof. B. Pharmacy, Gawande College of Pharmacy S. Kherda, Buldhana, Maharashtra, India.

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Mayuri Zore
Co-author

Asst. Prof. D. Pharmacy, Gawande College of Pharmacy S. Kherda , Buldhana, Maharashtra, India.

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Shivshankar M. Nagrik
Co-author

M. Pharmacy , Department of Pharmaceutics, Rajarshi Shahu College of Pharmacy, Buldhana , Maharashtra, India

Rutuja Ishwarkar*, Sakshi Londhe, Rupali Billari, Nikita Shingne, Priya Dandekar, Mayuri Zore, Shivshankar Nagrik, Exploring the Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Nyctanthes Arbor-Tristis: Formulation Approaches and Therapeutic Potential, Int. J. Sci. R. Tech., 2025, 2 (7), 246-264. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15877562

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