Evaluation of anti arthritic potential of gloriosa superba (l.) elite germplasm collected from Eastern Himalayas, India

Introduction: Gloriosa superba (L.) is a traditionally known medicinal plant for its potential antigout property. The species is rich source of colchicine alkaloid and is commercially exploit in the international market for the same. Method: In the present study, elite chemotype of G. superba was identified from natural population in Eastern Himalayas based on their colchicine content through HPTLC calibrated method. The selected elite chemotypes were further evaluated for in vitro anti-arthritic potential via inhibition of protein denaturation along with hydroxyl radical scavenging potential. Result: The HPTLC quantification data reveals that the content of colchicine varies from 0.044 to 0.184% having maximum content in NBG-128 from Jorhat, Assam. The results of bioassay reflect a potentiating anti-arthritic and hydroxyl radical scavenging with statistically insignificant difference within the elite germplasms. Conclusion: The presence of bioactive polyphenolics with significant hydroxyl radical scavenging will further suggest that inhibition of inflammatory mediator cells by extract is superimposed action of colchicine and other chemical inhibitors like polyphenolics. The study will aid in site specific exploration of high metabolite yielding chemotype(s) with validated pharmacological action for commercial cultivation to meet out the industrial demand of colchicine and herbal product development.