I have problem with the drug solvent in my work on anti-inflammatory effects of plants extracts on carragenane induced oedema (acute inflammation) and collagen induced arthritis (chronic one). Actually I am treating animals orally with a suspension of the oily extract (and indomethacin as control) in gum acacia (2% in water). But I have concerns about intestinal absorption (I need your opinion here).
The next step is to compare the amelioration obtained by the extract treatment with its individual components, some of these are in crystalline form (ex: thymoquinone: 1mm crystals) and homogeneous suspension could not be obtained. They must be dissolved to unsure the adequate dose administration to animals. Which solvent is the safest (chronic treatment), non-interfering (neither pro nor anti-inflammatory) and what are the adequate doses: DMSO, ethanol….?