Methods: Topical formulations (cream and emulgel) containing essential oils containing piperine and gingerol were prepared and evaluated. These formulations showed high retention (60-72%) at the site of action i.e. the dermis, where the fibroblasts are located, for a substantially long period which was demonstrated by ex vivo permeation studies. Drug was topically applied to the tibio-tarsal joint of the rats after 7th day of induction of rheumatoid arthritis using CFA. To evaluate the arthritic protective potential, the paw volume was measured up till 28th day, there was less % paw edema as measured by plethysmometer.

Results: The radiography and histopathology revealed lesser extent of bone and cartilage degradation in comparison to the untreated arthritic control.

Discussion: The amount of inflammatory cells in the synovial tissue, was highest in arthritic group, and was least in the test groups treated with the prepared formulations clearly indicating that both cream and emulgel were effective in controlling inflammation associated with arthritis.