Arthritis is a complex group of disorders characterized by inflammation of the joints, which leads to pain, stiffness, and functional impairment. Among these, rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most studied types because of its autoimmune nature and significant impact on quality of life. Research has shown that RA is caused by a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as smoking and obesity, which trigger inflammatory responses mediated by cytokines like interleukin-1β and interleukin-6. This inflammation can lead to joint destruction and systemic complications if not properly managed.1. Recent studies emphasize the importance of a "treat-to-target" (T2T) approach in managing RA, which aims for remission or low disease activity through regular monitoring and therapy adjustments. Evidence suggests that this strategy leads to better clinical outcomes compared to routine care, reducing comorbidities and improving work productivity 2. Moreover, knowledge in the pathophysiology of RA has made possible the introduction of new drugs aimed at inhibiting specific inflammatory pathways, such as Janus kinase inhibitors and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs that have proven useful in controlling pain and disease activity. 3.4

Types of arthritis -

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is another significant type, classified as an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the synovial lining of joints, leading to inflammation and potential joint damage. RA affects multiple joints simultaneously and can result in systemic symptoms like fatigue. Treatment strategies have evolved significantly, focusing on reducing joint inflammation, maximizing function, and preventing joint destruction through disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies 5.

Psoriatic arthritis, or PsA, is another related condition caused by psoriasis and has its autoimmune nature similar to RA, which can cause joint pain and skin changes; an acute attack of severe, sharp pain in any joint, mainly in the big toe, resulting from uric acid crystal deposition, is gout; JIA stands for Juvenile idiopathic arthritis and its variations can cause chronic pain and swelling in affected joints of children.6,7

Symptoms of arthritis –

Common symptoms include pain, which can be constant or intermittent and tends to worsen with activity or at the end of the day. Stiffness is also common, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, and some patients report stiffness that lasts over 45 minutes, a feature more commonly associated with inflammatory arthritis. Swelling around joints can occur accompanied by warmth and redness over the affected parts of the body. Other individuals may also find themselves experiencing fatigue brought on by persistent pain and possibly sleep disturbances of their condition. Depending on the intensity level, these manifestations can result in reduced range of motion and possible functional impairment, which will indeed affect the life quality and, consequently, life activities. 8

Medicinal plant having anti – Arthritis activity:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a challenging autoimmune disorder that significantly impacts the daily lives of those affected, causing chronic inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and fatigue. This condition arises from a complex interplay of genetic factors and environmental triggers like smoking and obesity, which provoke the immune system to attack the synovial lining of the joints. As symptoms can escalate over time, effective management has evolved towards a "treat-to-target" approach, focusing on achieving remission or low disease activity through regular monitoring and personalized treatment plans. Advances in therapies, including Janus kinase inhibitors and biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), offer new hope for better symptomcontrol and improved quality of life. Ultimately, a comprehensive strategy that addresses both joint health and overall well-being is essential for those living with RA.