Phytochemicals and bioactive compounds in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory perspectives

Hajera Khan*, Rutuja Patil, Faiza Farooqui, Mahesh Maske, Varun Rathod, Vijay Navghare

Department of Quality Assurance, Indira College of Pharmacy, Nanded, Maharashtra, India

Refer this article

Hajera Khan, Rutuja Patil, Faiza Farooqui, Mahesh Maske, Varun Rathod, Vijay Navghare, 2026. Phytochemicals and bioactive compounds in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory perspectives. Journal of medical pharmaceutical and allied sciences, V 15, I 2, Pages 22 – 28. Doi: https://doi.org/10.55522/jmpas.V15I2.7008

ABSTRACT

RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, cartilage deterioration, and systemic oxidative stress. Growing data reveals phytochemicals and bioactive substances have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, suggesting supplementary RA treatments. Curcumin, boswellic acids, and quercetin can reduce synovial inflammation and joint damage by inhibiting inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1, and IL-6. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, these natural chemicals protect cartilage and reduce reactive oxygen species–mediated tissue damage. Synergistic effects of various phytochemical in polyherbal formulations may improve therapeutic efficacy and lower component doses, according to emerging studies. Nanotechnology-based delivery technologies including nanoemulsions and nanoparticles have increased bioavailability and targeted administration of these chemicals, overcoming limitations in conventional herbal extracts. In this review, ethnobotanical knowledge is combined with modern science to evaluate therapeutic plants and extracted phytochemical using HPLC, mass spectrometry, and molecular docking. In RA models, anti-inflammatory markers, oxidative stress indicators, and clinical relevance are key outcomes. The data supports phytochemical as adjuncts or alternatives to RA therapy, emphasizing the need for mechanistic understanding, improved formulations, and new delivery methods to enhance clinical benefits and minimize side effects.

Keywords:

Rheumatoid arthritis, Phytochemicals, Curcumin, Boswellic acids, Quercetin, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Immunomodulation, Polyherbal formulations.

Full Text Article