Phytotherapy, an alternative in the treatment of rheumatic infections

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Article Title:	Phytotherapy, an alternative in the treatment of rheumatic infections
Authors:	M.F. Munteanu, P. Tuduce, A.M. Dărăban, C. Pribac
Affiliation:	1.Department of Pharmacognosy, „Vasile Goldiş” Western University, Arad; 2. Department of Balneophysiotherapy and rehabilitation therapy, „Vasile Goldiş” Western University, Arad; 3. Department of General and Inorganic Chemistry, „Vasile Goldiş” Western University, Arad; 4. Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, „Vasile Goldiş” Western University, Arad
Abstract:	The traditional medicine has been using plants for centuries for treating different rheumatic troubles and joint pains. Harpagophytum is an alternative in treating the rheumatic inflammatory diseases. The studies of numerous researchers show the anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of this species. This study aims to be a synthesis of the data published so far in relation to Harpagophytum procumbens. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties are based on the plant composition of glycosides. According to the study Harpagophytum exercises the anti-inflammatory and analgesic action by blocking the cyclooxygenase 2 and the nitric oxide followed by the blocking of the formation of prostaglandins (the inflammation and pain being mediated by the prostaglandins at the level of the inflammatory tissues). The use of Harpagophytum in case of inflammatory or degenerative rheumatism brings about the improvement of the symptoms and represents a viable alternative to the medication with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Keywords:	Harpagophytum procumbens, osteoarthritis, cyclooxygenase
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