Abstract
Background: Chikungunya arthritis is a chronic condition characterized by persistent joint pain following an infection with the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. This study aims to identify commonly used medicinal plants for post-chikungunya rheumatism in Amazonas, Brazil, and examine beliefs and usage patterns.
Methods: This observational study was conducted between May and September 2023 in Roraima, Amazonas, Brazil. Adult participants with a history of CHIKV infection were recruited and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data was obtained on demographics, CHIKV infection details, arthritis severity measured using the Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS-28), and the use of medicinal plants for symptom management.
Results: A total of 47 participants (mean age: 40.6 years, 59.6% female) with a history of CHIKV infection and arthralgia were included in this study. The majority (78.7%) reported using at least one common medicinal plant for symptom relief: Miconia Albicans (36.8%) and Arnica (26.3%) being the most common, followed by Boswellia, Saffron, Ginger, Lemongrass, and Turmeric (7% each). Less commonly, Caimbé, Coconut, Lemon & Honey, Horse Chestnut, and Capim Santo. DAS-28 amongst all plant-users was mild (Median DAS-28=2.2 (1.8-2.5)). Interestingly, M. albicans and Arnica users had the lowest scores among plant users (Median DAS-28= 2.0 (1.6-2.2) and 2.2 (1.0-2.6) respectively). Furthermore, DAS-28 was lower in users of M. albicans compared to users of other plant types (Median DAS-28= 2.0 (1.6-2.2) vs. 2.3 (1.9-2.7), t(47)= 0.3, p= 0.04).
Conclusion: Medicinal plant usage for viral arthritis is common in the Amazonas region. The findings highlight the widespread use of medicinal plants among participants, with a substantial proportion reporting improvements in pain, stiffness, and daily activities. Further exploration is needed into the role of traditional remedies in improving the quality of life for those affected by chikungunya arthritis, and to promote awareness and the development of potential treatments for chikungunya arthritis.
Keywords
Medicinal plants, Herbs, Chikungunya virus, Arthritis, Arthralgia, Stiffness, Pain, Inflammation