Evaluation of the Anti-inflammatory Potential of a Combined Ocimum sanctum and Cinnamomum zeylanicum Polyherbal Formulation: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Background: Inflammation plays a pivotal role in endodontic diseases, leading to pain, tissue damage, and impaired healing. While synthetic medicaments and irrigants are widely used to manage endodontic infections and inflammation, they have limitations, including cytotoxicity and adverse effects. This study explores a combined polyherbal extract of Ocimum sanctum and Cinnamomum zeylanicum, each known for its anti-inflammatory properties, as a biocompatible natural alternative for managing endodontic inflammation through various in vitro assays.

Methods: The polyherbal extract was prepared from authenticated plant materials. Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed via three in vitro assays: Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) denaturation, egg albumin denaturation, and membrane stabilization assays at concentrations of 10-50 µg/mL. Diclofenac sodium served as the reference standard. Percentage inhibition of protein denaturation and membrane stabilization was calculated, with statistical significance determined using one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05).

Results: The combined extract exhibited significant, dose-dependent synergistic anti-inflammatory effects across all three assays. Higher concentrations (10-50 µg/mL) led to progressively increased inhibition of inflammation indicators, demonstrating the formulation’s potency. Statistical analysis confirmed significant anti-inflammatory activity across all assays (p < 0.05), indicating the extract’s potential as a potent natural anti-inflammatory agent.

Conclusion: The combined Ocimum sanctum and Cinnamomum zeylanicum polyherbal formulation demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory activity, suggesting its potential as a natural adjunct or alternative to conventional agents used in endodontic therapy. Further in vivo research is needed to confirm its efficacy and optimize clinical application.