Anti-inflammatory activity of clitorea ternatea linn
Clitoria ternatea Linn., commonly known as butterfly pea, exhibits significant anti-inflammatory activity as supported by multiple scientific investigations.
Phytochemical Basis: The anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, anthocyanins (notably ternatins), alkaloids, phenolic compounds, triterpenoids, and steroidal glycosides. These compounds modulate inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress, which underlie their therapeutic effects [1], [2].
Experimental Evidence: Ethanolic extracts of Clitoria ternatea, particularly from roots and flowers, have demonstrated reduced edema in carrageenan and histamine-induced paw inflammation models in rats, indicating potent anti-inflammatory effects. These extracts also showed efficacy in suppressing arthritis symptoms in Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritic rat models, reducing joint swelling and improving antioxidant parameters like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione (GSH) levels [3].
Molecular Effects: Studies show that Clitoria ternatea significantly reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-alpha and inhibits enzymes like cyclooxygenase (COX), which regulate the inflammatory response. For example, topical application of Clitoria ternatea extract gel reduced TNF-alpha and caspase-3 expression in UVB-exposed skin tissue, thus mitigating inflammation and apoptosis induced by oxidative stress [4], [5].
Nanoparticle Formulation: Green synthesized selenium nanoparticles mediated by Clitoria ternatea extract exhibit strong dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity, suggesting enhanced bioavailability and targeted delivery potential of the plant’s bioactives [6].
Traditional and Clinical Relevance: Traditionally, Clitoria ternatea has been used in Ayurveda for managing inflammatory conditions such as edema and arthritic pain. Contemporary studies confirm its safety and efficacy, proposing it as a natural alternative or adjuvant to conventional anti-inflammatory therapies, with fewer side effects than synthetic drugs [2], [7].
Mechanisms: The anti-inflammatory mechanisms involve antioxidant activities that reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), modulation of immune cell function, and downregulation of inflammatory mediators. This multifactorial action contributes to its effectiveness against various inflammatory ailments [8], [1].
Dosage and Formulation: Anti-inflammatory effects have been demonstrated across various formulations including oral ethanolic extracts, topical gels, and transdermal patches containing optimized blends of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na CMC) polymers [9], [10].
In summary, the anti-inflammatory activity of Clitoria ternatea Linn. is robustly supported by phytochemical, pharmacological, and experimental data. Its ability to modulate key inflammatory pathways, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and exhibit antioxidant properties makes it a promising candidate for development as a natural anti-inflammatory agent in both traditional and modern therapeutics.
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