Development Of Nanostructured Polyherbal Gel For Transdermal Delivery In Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disorder characterized by joint inflammation, pain, and functional disability. Conventional oral and injectable therapies often face limitations such as poor bioavailability, systemic side effects, and patient non-compliance, necessitating alternative delivery strategies. The present study focuses on the development of a nanostructured polyherbal gel for transdermal delivery in the management of RA, integrating the synergistic therapeutic benefits of multiple medicinal plant extracts with advanced nanocarrier technology. Selected anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory phytoconstituents were incorporated into nanostructures to enhance solubility, stability, skin permeation, and sustained release. The gel base was optimized for rheological properties, spreadability, and bioadhesion to ensure patient-friendly application. In vitro characterization included particle size, zeta potential, drug release kinetics, and ex vivo skin permeation studies. Preliminary pharmacological evaluation demonstrated significant reduction in pro-inflammatory markers and improvement in joint mobility compared to conventional formulations. The nanostructured gel exhibited superior therapeutic efficacy, reduced dosing frequency, and minimized adverse effects. This work highlights the potential of combining nanotechnology with polyherbal therapy to create a safe, effective, and patient-compliant transdermal system for RA management, offering a promising alternative to conventional

treatment modalities