TOPICAL LIPOSOMAL LOTION OF CARDIOSPERMUM HALICACABUM FOR ANTI INFLAMMATORY ACTION IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder that primarily affects synovial joints and often requires long-term therapy, which may lead to systemic side effects. The present study focuses on the development of a topical liposomal herbal lotion containing Cardiospermum halicacabum extract to enhance localized anti-inflammatory action and improve patient compliance. The aerial parts of C. halicacabum were subjected to ethanolic extraction and evaluated for phytochemical constituents, which confirmed the presence of flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, and tannins. The extract was characterized using FTIR, UV–Visible spectroscopy, and thin layer chromatography to confirm functional groups and marker compounds. Liposomes were prepared using soya lecithin and cholesterol and incorporated into a herbal lotion base. The formulated liposomal lotion was evaluated for physicochemical parameters such as appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, skin irritation, and microscopic characteristics. In vitro antiinflammatory activity was assessed using the protein denaturation assay, showing concentrationdependent inhibition comparable to the standard drug. Morphological studies using microscopy and SEM confirmed the formation of spherical, uniformly distributed liposomes. Molecular docking studies revealed favorable binding interactions of kaempferol with the TLR4 receptor, supporting the observed anti-inflammatory activity. Overall, the results demonstrate that liposomal encapsulation significantly enhances the therapeutic potential of Cardiospermum halicacabum, suggesting that the developed topical liposomal herbal lotion is a promising, safe, and effective alternative for the management of rheumatoid arthritis.