Molecular insights into anti-inflammatory activities of selected Indian herbs

Abstract

Inflammation is a universal response of mammalian tissue to harm, comprising reactions to injuries, pathogens, and foreign particles. Chronic inflammation, often present in allergies and autoimmune disorders, poses significant risks, potentially leading to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Alzheimer's disease, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. It can also be a common precursor to cancer. However, Contemporary therapies like NSAIDs and corticosteroids often provide incomplete relief from chronic inflammation and carry significant side effects, underscoring the need for exploring traditional and plant-based medicines for new, effective treatments. As such, there is a growing demand for natural bioactive substances for health maintenance and disease risk reduction. Traditional and plant-based medicines, long-used in managing inflammation and other disorders, hold promise for the discovery of bioactive lead compounds and subsequent drug development for treating inflammatory disorders. This review encompasses an extensive study of the anti-inflammatory potential of selected traditional Indian herbal medicines and the associated pharmacological mechanisms of action. The inflammatory process often entails the activation of transcription factors, induction of various signaling cascades, gene expression, activation of inflammatory enzymes, and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in inflammatory or immune cells. Detailed exploration of active components in traditional herbal medicines such as the Neem (Azadirachta indica), Salai guggul (Boswellia serrata), Green tea (Camellia sinensis), Saffron (Crocus sativus), Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), Indian mulberry (Morinda citrifolia), Black cumin (Nigella sativa), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reveals their potential anti-inflammatory properties. The in-depth study of these plants provides insight into their potential applications in managing inflammatory disorders. Further research and development are necessary to substantiate these findings and translate them into clinically effective therapeutics.