A Novel Citrus medica Gel for the Treatment of Experimental Osteoarthritis: A Preclinical Study

Background Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis affecting the elderly and obese population, and requires long-term medical management. Inflammatory pathways, possibly initiated by tissue damage and stress are involved in the pathogenesis of OA. Citrus medica Linn., known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, has been the focus of management of OA in recent years. Objectives To explore the therapeutic potential of Citrus medica gel in Wistar Albino rat OA model with standard Aceclofenac gel. Materials and Methods An experimental interventional animal study was conducted in which OA was induced in 24 male Wistar Albino rats (12-week-old) using monosodium iodoacetate. The animals were observed for 1 week for signs of joint inflammation. They were then divided into four groups. Group A (standard) received Aceclofenac gel twice daily (BD) for 4 weeks. Group B received C. medica gel (0.2 g, 0.33% w/w) once daily (OD). Group C received C. medica gel (0.2 g, 0.33% w/w) BD, and Group D was kept as a disease control throughout the study. The results were compared between groups using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results The double-dose C. medica gel regimen displayed a significant and earlier reduction in ankle joint circumference (ANOVA, p value < .001). Pain relief was observed, as evidenced by a favorable reversal of the arthritic index and score compared to the standard treatment. Conclusion This study highlights the potential of C. medica gel in reducing inflammation and pain associated with OA. These findings warrant further investigation through clinical trials.