Experimental Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Maha Agad using the Carrageenan-Induced Paw Edema Model in Wistar Rats

Background: Jangam Visha (animal venom poisoning) induces an acute inflammatory response through activation of the innate immune system and the subsequent release of inflammatory mediators. These mediators cause vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and leukocyte infiltration, resulting in the classical signs of inflammation, including redness, swelling, heat, pain, and impaired function. Maha Agad, a classical Ayurvedic formulation, has traditionally been used in the management of conditions associated with Jangam Visha; however, its anti-inflammatory efficacy has not been scientifically validated. Objective: To investigate the anti-inflammatory activity of Maha Agad using the carrageenan-induced paw edema model in Wistar albino rats. Materials and Methods: Healthy Wistar albino rats were randomly allocated into three groups. Group I received carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and served as the control, Group II received Maha Agad (200 mg/kg) as the test drug, and Group III received diclofenac sodium (10 mg/kg) as the standard drug OD for the seven days. On the seventh day, acute inflammation was induced by subplantar injection of 0.1 mL of 1% carrageenan into the left hind paw, one hour after drug administration. Paw volume was measured at 0, 1, 2, 3, 6, and 9 hours after carrageenan injection using a plethysmometer. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett's post hoc test for multiple comparisons. Results: Maha Agad exhibited a progressive, time-dependent reduction in paw edema, with a maximum inhibition of 27.31% observed at the 9th hour, compared with 41.21% inhibition produced by diclofenac sodium. The anti-inflammatory effect was statistically significant during the late phase of inflammation (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Maha Agad demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory activity, particularly during the late inflammatory phase. The observed effect may be attributed to inhibition of cyclooxygenase-mediated prostaglandin synthesis and modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These findings suggest that Maha Agad has potential as a promising herbal therapeutic agent for the management of inflammatory conditions.