Vol. 2, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Synthetic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen are widely used for pain and inflammation management but are frequently associated with adverse gastrointestinal and renal effects. Herbal formulations containing bioactive phytochemicals such as curcuminoids, boswellic acids, and gingerols have emerged as potential alternatives due to their multi-target mechanisms and improved safety profiles.
Objective: This study aimed to comparatively evaluate the analgesic and anti-inflammatory potential of a standard synthetic drug (Ibuprofen) and a standardized polyherbal formulation containing Curcuma longa, Boswellia serrata, and Zingiber officinale extracts in experimental animal models.
Methods: Adult Wistar rats were divided into four groups: control, Ibuprofen (400 mg/kg), herbal low dose (250 mg/kg), and herbal high dose (500 mg/kg). Analgesic activity was assessed using the hot-plate and acetic acid-induced writhing tests, while anti-inflammatory efficacy was evaluated through the carrageenan-induced paw edema model. Serum biomarkers (CRP, TNF-α, IL-6) and gastric lesion scores were measured to assess systemic inflammation and safety. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s post-hoc test, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Both Ibuprofen and the high-dose herbal formulation produced significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects compared to control (p < 0.001). The herbal formulation achieved >60% inhibition in the writhing model and nearly matched Ibuprofen’s efficacy in the late phase of carrageenan-induced edema. Biomarker analysis revealed substantial reductions in CRP, TNF-α, and IL-6 in treated groups, with minimal gastric mucosal damage observed in the herbal formulation group compared to Ibuprofen.
Conclusion: The polyherbal formulation demonstrated analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects comparable to Ibuprofen, with superior safety and tolerability. These findings highlight the potential of standardized herbal formulations as effective, safer alternatives or adjuncts to conventional NSAIDs for pain and inflammation management. Further clinical validation and pharmacometabolomic profiling are recommended to optimize therapeutic use and ensure product consistency.