Can the aqueous decoction of mango flowers be used as an antiulcer agent?

Phytochemical Estimation and Therapeutic Amelioration of Aesculus hippocastanum L. Seeds Ethanolic Extract in Gastric Ulcer in Rats Possibly by Inhibiting Prostaglandin Synthesis

OBJECTIVE

To quantify phytochemicals using liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy (LCMS) analysis and explore the therapeutic effect of Aesculus hippocastanum L. (AH) seeds ethanolic extract against gastric ulcers in rats.

METHODS

Preliminary phytochemical testing and LCMS analysis were performed according to standard methods. For treatment, the animals were divided into 7 groups including normal control, ulcer control, self-healing, AH seeds low and high doses, ranitidine and per se groups. Rats were orally administered with 10 mg/kg of indomethacin, excluding the normal control group (which received 1% carboxy methyl cellulose) and the per se group (received 200 mg/kg AH seeds extract). The test group rats were then given 2 doses of AH seeds extract (100 and 200 mg/kg, respectively), while the standard group was given ranitidine (50 mg/kg). On the 11th day, rats in all groups were sacrificed, and their stomach was isolated to calculate the ulcer index, and other parameters such as blood prostaglandin (PGE2), tissue superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), malonyldialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH). All isolated stomach tissues were analyzed for histopathological findings.

RESULTS

The phytochemical examination shows that the AH seeds contain alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenolic components, and glycosides. LCMS analysis confirms the presence of quercetin and rutin. The AH seeds extract showed significant improvement in gastric mucosa conditions after indomethacin-induced gastric lesions (P<0.01). Further marked improvement in blood PGE2 and antioxidant enzymes, SOD, CAT, MDA and GSH, were observed compared with self-healing and untreated ulcer-induced groups (P<0.01). Histopathology results confirmed that AH seeds extract improved the mucosal layer and gastric epithelial membrane in treated groups compared to untreated ulcer-induced groups.

CONCLUSIONS

LCMS report confirms the presence of quercetin and rutin in AH seeds ethanolic extract. The therapeutic effect of AH seeds extract against indomethacin-induced ulcer in rat model indicated the regenerated membrane integrity, with improved cellular functions and mucus thickness. Further, improved antioxidant enzyme level would help to reduce PGE2 biosynthesis.

Propolis: An update on its chemistry and pharmacological applications

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by honeybees from various plant sources, has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine for several purposes all over the world. The precise composition of propolis varies according to plant source, seasons harvesting, geography, type of bee flora, climate changes, and honeybee species at the site of collection. This apiary product has broad clinical applications such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, analgesic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic as well asimmunomodulatory effects. It is also well known from traditional uses in treating purulent disorders, improving the wound healing, and alleviating many of the related discomforts. Even if its use was already widespread since ancient times, after the First and Second World War, it has grown even more as well as the studies to identify its chemical and pharmacological features, allowing to discriminate the qualities of propolis in terms of the chemical profile and relative biological activity based on the geographic place of origin. Recently, several in vitro and in vivo studies have been carried out and new insights into the pharmaceutical prospects of this bee product in the management of different disorders, have been highlighted. Specifically, the available literature confirms the efficacy of propolis and its bioactive compounds in the reduction of cancer progression, inhibition of bacterial and viral infections as well as mitigation of parasitic-related symptoms, paving the way to the use of propolis as an alternative approach to improve the human health. However, a more conscious use of propolis in terms of standardized extracts as well as new clinical studies are needed to substantiate these health claims.

Medicinal Plants with Prospective Benefits in the Management of Peptic Ulcer Diseases in Ghana

Background

The growth or multiplication of harmful microorganisms in addition to harmful human activities has led to many disorders in humans. Consequently, there is a search for medications to treat these disorders. Interestingly, medicines of plant origin are known to be among the most attractive sources of new drugs and have shown promising results in the treatment of various diseases including peptic ulcers. This review, therefore, is aimed at obtaining knowledge on some Ghanaian ethnomedicinal plants used to treat peptic ulcers, their folkloric uses, their phytochemicals, and their antiulcer and related pharmacological activities as well as finding areas for prospective studies.

Methods

Published peer-reviewed articles on ethnomedicinal plants used for the management of peptic ulcers in Ghana from 1967 to 2020 were sourced and used for the study.

Results

In this review, 13 plants were identified which belong to 10 different families including Sapindaceae, Apocynaceae, and Bignoniaceae. The parts most often used for most preparations were the leaves (53%), followed by stem bark and roots (both having the same percentage of use of 17.6%), the whole plant (5.9%), and the rhizomes (5.9%). Azadirachta indica was the only plant that had undergone some patient studies in addition to animal studies. Conclusion. A discussion of various antiulcer activity studies using ulcer models carried out on selected medicinal plants used for the management of peptic ulcer disease in addition to brief information on their folkloric uses and their phytochemical and other pharmacological properties is presented. These medicinal plants may be used in developing herbal products for the management of peptic ulcer disease.

A Review: Underutilized plant of Sabah and Its Potential Value

Underutilized plants are referred to a plant species which their potential is not fully utilized yet and they are usually found abundantly in certain local area but globally rare. Sabah is known for a high biodiversity and contains many underutilized plants. To our knowledge, this is the first review is to provide an overview information of medicinal value and pharmacological properties of underutilized plant in Sabah. Extract and metabolites in different part of several underutilized plant contains multiple beneficial bioactive compounds and exploitation of these compounds was supported by additional data which plays various biological activities including anti-atherosclerotic, anti-cancer, antihypercholesterolemic and anti-ulcerogenic. A handful of pharmacological studies on the natural product these underutilized plants have conclusively outlined the mode of action in treatment of several diseases and in other health aspects. This paper limits its scope to reviewe and highlight the potential of using underutilized plants in Sabah only which could serve as reliable resource for health product development in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical through continuous discovering of more active and sustainable resources as well as ingredients for food and medicine.

Gastroprotective effects of nebivolol and simvastatin against cold restraint stress-induced gastric ulcer in rats

Gastric ulcer is one of the most serious diseases. Nebivolol (Neb), a β1-blocker, exhibits vasodilator and anti-oxidative properties, simvastatin (Sim) antihyperlipidemic drug, exhibits anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory properties and promote endogenous nitric oxide (NO) production. The aim of this study was to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of Neb and Sim against cold restraint stress (CRS)-induced gastric ulcer in rats. Rats were restrained, and maintained at 4°C for 3 hours. Animals were divided into six groups; control group, CRS group, and four treatment groups received ranitidine (Ran), Neb, Sim and both Neb and Sim. Treatments were given orally on a daily basis for 7 days prior to CRS. The gastroprotective effects of Neb and Sim were assessed biochemically by measuring variations in prostaglandins E2, NO, reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde, and functionally by estimating force of contractions of isolated rat fundus in the studied groups in response to acetylecholine stimulation and morphologically using hematoxylin and eosin staining, periodic acid Schiff's reaction and immunohistochemistry for cyclooxygenase 2 in gastric mucosa. CRS caused significant ulcerogenic effect. Alternatively, pretreatment with Ran, Neb, and Sim significantly corrected biochemical findings, pharmacological and histological studies.

Incidence of hypoplastic posterior communicating artery and fetal posterior cerebral artery in Andhra population of India: a retrospective 3-Tesla magnetic resonance angiographic study

The posterior communicating arteries (PCoA) are important component of collateral circulation between the anterior and posterior part of circle of Willis (CW). The hypoplasia or aplasia of PCoA will reflect on prognosis of the neurological diseases. Precise studies of the incidence of hypoplastic PCoA in Andhra Pradesh population of India are hitherto unreported, since the present study was undertaken. Two hundred and thirty one magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) images were analyzed to identify the hypoplasia of PCoA and presence of fetal type of posterior cerebral artery (f-PCA) in patients with different neurological symptoms. All the patients underwent 3.0T MRI exposure. The results were statistically analysed. A total of 63 (27.3%) PCoA hypoplasia and 13 cases with f-PCA (5.6%) cases were identified. The hypoplastic PCoA was noted more in males than females (P<0.05) and right side hypoplasia was common than the left (P<0.04); bilateral hypoplasia of PCoA was seen in 37 cases out of 63 and is significant. The hypoplastic cases of the present study also were associated with variations of anterior cerebral arteries and one case was having vertebral artery hypoplasia. Incidence of PCoA as unilateral or bilateral with other associated anomalies of CW is more prone to develop stroke, migraine and cognitive dysfunction. Knowledge of these variations in the PCoA plays a pivotal role in diagnoses of neurological disorders and in neurovascular surgeries and angiographic point of view.

Potential Antiulcer Agents From Plants: A Comprehensive Review

Background:

Peptic ulcer is a deep gastrointestinal erosion disorder that involves the entire mucosal thickness and can even penetrate the muscular mucosa. Nowadays, several plants and compounds derived from it have been screened for their antiulcer activity. In the last few years, there has been an exponential growth in the field of herbal medicine. This field has gained popularity in both developing and developed countries because of their natural origin and less side effects.

Objective:

This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of currently available knowledge of medicinal plants and phytoconstituents reported for their anti-ulcer properties.

Methods:

The worldwide accepted database like SCOPUS, PUBMED, SCIELO, NISCAIR, ScienceDirect, Springerlink, Web of Science, Wiley, SciFinder and Google Scholar were used to retrieve available published literature.

Results:

A comprehensive review of the present paper is an attempt to list the plants with antiulcer activity. The review narrates the dire need to explore potential chemical moieties that exert an antiulcer effect, from unexploited traditional plants. Furthermore, the present study reveals the intense requirement to exploit the exact mechanism through which either the plant extracts or their active constituents exhibit their antiulcer properties.

Conclusion:

This article is the compilation of the plants and its constituents reported for the treatment of peptic ulcers. The Comprehensive data will surely attract the number of investigators to initiate further research that might lead to the drugs for the treatment of ulcers. As sufficient scientific data is not available on plants, most of the herbals cannot be recommended for the treatment of diseases. This can be achieved by research on pure chemical structures derived from plants or to prepare new lead compounds with proven beneficial preclinical in vitro and in vivo effects. However, a lot remains to be done in further investigations for the better status of medicinal plants.

Anti-ulcerogenic activity of dentatin from clausena excavata Burm.f. against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats: Possible role of mucus and anti-oxidant effect

BACKGROUND

Clausena excavata Burm.f. (Rutaceae) has been used for the treatment of stomach disorders including peptic ulcer.

PURPOSE

In this study, we aimed to investigate dentatin isolated from C. excavata Burm.f., for anti-ulcer activity against ethanol ulcer model in rats.

METHODS

Gastric acid output, ulcer index, serum profile, histological evaluation using Hematoxylin and eosin (HE), periodic acid Schiff base stainings and immunohistochemical localization for heat shock proteins 70 (HSP70) were all investigated. Possible involvement of reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation, prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes, radical scavenging, and anti-Helicobacter pylori activity were investigated.

RESULTS

Dentatin showed anti-secretory activity against the pylorus ligature model and protected the gastric mucosa from ethanol ulceration, as revealed by the improved macroscopic and histological appearance. Dentatin significantly increased the gastric homogenate content of PGE₂ GSH and SOD. Dentatin inhibited the lipid peroxidation as revealed by the reduced gastric content of malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, dentatin up-regulated HSP70 expression. However, dentatin showed insignificant anti-H. pylori activity.

CONCLUSION

Dentatin possesses gastro-protective activity, which could be attributed to the anti-secretory, mucus production, anti-oxidant, and HSP70 activities.

Protective activity of geraniol against acetic acid and Helicobacter pylori- induced gastric ulcers in rats

Geraniol, an active constituent of rose and palmarosa essential oils, possesses several pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial and antiulcer activity. Geraniol was therefore investigated for its antiulcer and anti-Helicobacter pylori activity in rats. Ulcers were induced by injecting acetic acid into the sub-serosal layer of the stomach followed by orogastric inoculation of H. pylori for 7 days. Geraniol (15 and 30 mg/kg), vehicle and a standard drug combination (amoxicillin, 50 mg/kg; clarithromycin, 25 mg/kg and omeprazole, 20 mg/kg) were administered twice daily for 14 days. All the parameters were measured at the end of treatment. The ulcer index was significantly (P < 0.05) lowered in geraniol and standard drug-treated rats as compared to the H. pylori control group (4.13 ± 0.43). Treatment with geraniol (30 mg/kg) significantly (P < 0.01) increased the gastric pH along with a reduction in total acidity and gastric juice volume. Geraniol significantly (P < 0.05) attenuated the myeloperoxidase activity and augmented the total glutathione level in gastric mucosa. The extent of damage in the stomach was measured using a histopathological score. The score in H. pylori control, geraniol (30 mg/kg) and standard drugs was 9, 3.5 and 2.0 respectively. In the rapid urease test, treatment with geraniol (30 mg/kg) and the standard drugs produced a 33% and 67% cure respectively from H. pylori infection. Further, the reduction in bacterial load in the gastric mucosa was confirmed using modified Giemsa staining. Geraniol was observed to exhibit significant antiulcer and anti-H. pylori activity in a rodent model.

Gastroprotective effect of ethanol extracts of cladodes and roots of Pilosocereus gounellei (A. Weber ex K. Schum.) Bly. Ex Rowl (Cactaceae) on experimental ulcer models

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pilosocereus gounellei Cactaceae), popularly known as "xique xique", is a species native from Caatinga region of Northeast Brazil, which is used by traditional communities in folk medicine for a variety of health problems, especially inflammatory processes and gastritis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study investigates the possible gastric antiulceractivity of ethanol extracts obtained from the cladodes and roots of Pilosocereus gounellei (EECPG and EERPG, respectively) and mechanisms of action underlying this effect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Mice were used for the evaluation of the acute toxicity, and mice and rats to study the gastroprotective activity. The gastroprotective action of EECPG and EERPG was analyzed in the absolute ethanol in mice, ischemia-reperfusion and cold restraint stress in rats. In the investigation of the gastroprotective mechanisms of EECPG and EERPG, the participation of the NO and prostaglandins, the levels of the non-protein sulfhydril groups (NP-SH) and the catalase activity using the ethanol-induced gastric mucosa lesion model and the quantification of the gastric mucus and the antisecretory activity through pylorus ligature model in rats were analyzed.

RESULTS

The animals did not present any signs of acute toxicity for the EECPG and EERPG, and it was not possible to calculate the DL50. EECPG and EERPG (200 and 400 mg/kg) exhibited a significant gastroprotective effect in absolute ethanol, ischemia-reperfusion-induced and cold restraint stress gastric lesion models. Gastroprotection of EECPG and EERPG (200 mg/kg) was significantly decreased in pre-treated mice with L-NAME. Our studies revealed that EECPG and EERPG (200 mg/kg) prevented the decrease of the non-protein sulfhydril groups (NPSH) and increased the catalase levels in ethanol-treated animals. However, the gastric secretion parameters (volume, [H+], pH) did not show any alteration.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the ethanolic extract from the cladodes and roots of Pilosocereus gounellei exhibits a significant gastroprotection, because it inhibits the formation of gastric lesions using different models. The participation of the nitric oxide, prostaglandins, the non-protein sulfhydril groups (NP-SH), catalase seem to be involved in the gastroprotection activity of the EECPG and EERPG. Nevertheless, this activity does not seem to be related to antisecretory mechanisms.

A Review on Ethnopharmacological Applications, Pharmacological Activities, and Bioactive Compounds of Mangifera indica (Mango)

Mangifera indica (family Anacardiaceae), commonly known as mango, is a pharmacologically, ethnomedically, and phytochemically diverse plant. Various parts of M. indica tree have been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of different ailments, and a number of bioactive phytochemical constituents of M. indica have been reported, namely, polyphenols, terpenes, sterols, carotenoids, vitamins, and amino acids, and so forth. Several studies have proven the pharmacological potential of different parts of mango trees such as leaves, bark, fruit peel and flesh, roots, and flowers as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, anthelmintic, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antiplasmodial, and antihyperlipemic. In the present review, a comprehensive study on ethnopharmacological applications, pharmacological activities, and bioactive compounds of M. indica has been described.

Antiulcer properties of fruits and vegetables: A mechanism based perspective

Gastric ulcer is the damage caused to mucosal layer of the stomach under the action of various factors like high levels of acid and pepsin, invasion by Helicobacter pylori, etc. Although most cases have been controlled and the rate of ulcer occurrence has reduced over the last few decades, gastric ulcer still holds a prime concern today. A range of palliative medicines comprising proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists, COX-2 inhibitors (coxibs) is widely in use and patients have also been administered with acid suppression therapies. But these remedies aggravate the condition of patients causing severe side effects, or rather impart temporary relief. Therefore, it is highly imperative to develop safe and effective therapies for the treatment of gastric ulcer. Nature provides us various fruits and vegetables that can combat gastric ulcer through multiple mechanisms; predominantly via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antisecretory, antimicrobial, anticholinergic and cytoprotective activity, inhibition of small intestinal propulsion etc. Various phytochemicals from fruits and vegetables such as phenolics, flavonoids, tannins and saponins play a vital role in the prevention and cure of gastric ulcer. This review is a compendium of all fruits and vegetables known for their profound antiulcer effect and their underlying mechanisms of action.

The Protective Effect of Testosterone on Indomethacin Induced Gastric Ulcer in Female Sprague Dawley Rats

Gastric ulcer has shown association with changes in sex hormones, with impact exacerbated in males. Also, males are known to be more exposed to ulcer risk factors. This study investigates the effect of testosterone on indomethacin induced gastric ulcers in adult female rats. Eighteen female rats (225 ± 25 g body weight) were randomly assigned to 3 groups under standard laboratory condition. After acclimatization, animals fasted for 40 hrs but were given water ad libitum. Group A served as control while group B served as the ulcer control, in which ulcer was induced without treatment using indomethacin (40 mg/kg single orally dose). Group C was pretreated with testosterone (1 mg/kg IM) eight hours before ulcer induction. Eight hours after ulcer induction, animals were sacrificed and the stomach was harvested for analysis. Results showed a significant reduction in mucus content in groups C (0.79±0.11 g) and B (0.87±0.02 g) compared to A (1.11±0.03 g). Gastric mucus pH was significantly acidic in group B (4.40±0.55) compared to C (5.20±0.45) and A (5.80±0.45). There was a significantly higher ulcer index in group B (4.60±0.55 mm) compared to C (3.60±0.89 mm) and testosterone pretreatment resulted in a 21.74% ulcer inhibition. Although weak, the findings suggest that testosterone might protect the gastric mucosa against NSAIDs in females.

Mangiferin: A xanthonoid with multipotent anti-inflammatory potential

Over the last era, small molecules sourced from different plants have gained attention for their varied and long-term medicinal benefits. Their advantageous therapeutic effects in diverse pathological complications lead researchers to give an ever-increasing emphasis on them and discover their novel therapeutic potentials. Among these, the heat stable, xanthonoid group of organic molecules has gained special importance with distinctive regards to the bioactive molecule mangiferin due to its solubility in water. Mangiferin, a yellow polyphenol having C-glycosyl xanthone structure, is widely present in different edible sources like mango, and possesses numerous biological activities. Extensive research with this molecule shows its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, and immunomodulatory properties. Thus, it provides protection against a wide range of physiological disorders. The C-glucosyl linkage and polyhydroxy groups in mangiferin's structure contribute essentially to its free radical-scavenging activity. Moreover, its ability in regulating various transcription factors like NF-κB, Nrf-2, etc. and modulating the expression of different proinflammatory signaling intermediates like tumor necrosis factor-α, COX-2, etc. contribute to its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic potentials. In this comprehensive article, information has been provided about the sources, chemical structure, metabolism, and different biological activities of mangiferin with special emphasis on the underlying cellular signal transduction pathways. Insights into an in-depth assessment of mangiferin's anti-inflammatory therapeutic potential have also been discussed in detail. On an overall perspective, this review aims to stage mangiferin's diversified therapeutic applications and its emerging possibility as a promising drug in future based on its anti-inflammatory property. © 2016 BioFactors, 42(5):459-474, 2016.

Radical scavenging and gastroprotective activity of methanolic extract of Gmelina arborea stem bark

BACKGROUND

Gmelina arborea (GA) is widely used in traditional medicine for treating a number of ailments including gastrointestinal tract disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the gastroprotective effect of GA stem bark against ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All animals were fasted for 36 h and received GA extract 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight (bw), 1 h before the administration of ethanol. The animals received ranitidine 50 mg/kg bw which served as the standard. The rats were sacrificed after 4 h. Then, the injuries to the gastric mucosa were estimated through gross evaluation of ulcer lesions and histology. The antioxidant parameters such as level of lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in gastric tissue were also determined.

RESULTS

GA treatment at a dose of 500 mg/kg bw offered 91.98% inhibition of ulcer formation, which is higher than that of ranitidine. The ethanol treatment extensively increased lipid peroxidation and it was significantly (P < 0.01) reduced in GA-treated group that eventually helped to prevent free radical accumulation. The GA enhanced the gastric mucosal antioxidant system, as indicated by a dose-dependent increase in the level/activities of GSH, GPx, and SOD. GA also attenuated the severity of histological signs of cell damage. Further, GA extract showed in-vitro 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity with IC50 value of 124.39 μg/ml.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that the gastroprotective effect of GA is probably related to its antioxidant activities that protect gastric mucosa against oxidative damage and antilipid peroxidative activity that maintain membrane integrity.

Gastroprotective activity of chloroform extract of Muntingia calabura and Melastoma malabathricum leaves

CONTEXT

Muntingia calabura L. (family Muntingiaceae) and Melastoma malabathricum L. (family Melastomaceae) are traditionally used to treat gastric ulcer.

OBJECTIVE

The present study determines the mechanisms of gastroprotective activity of the chloroform extract of leaves obtained from both the plants using several in vitro and in vivo assays.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical screening, HPLC analysis, and antioxidant activity of the respective extract were carried out. Gastroprotective activity was determined using ethanol-induced gastric ulcer assay while the mechanisms of gastroprotection were determined using the pyloric ligation assay. The test solutions [8% Tween-80 (vehicle), 20 mg/kg omeprazole, and different doses of extracts (50, 250, or 500 mg/kg] were administered orally once daily for 7 consecutive days before the animals were subjected to ethanol induced gastric ulcers.

RESULTS

The chloroform-extracted M. calabura (CEMC) contains tannins, polyphenolics, triterpenes, and steroids while the chloroform-extracted M. malabathricum (CEMM) contains only triterpenes and steroids. CEMC, but not CEMM, exerted remarkably strong antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)- (86% versus 16%) and superoxide- (73% versus 36%) radical scavenging assays. Both extracts demonstrated significant (p < 0.05) gastroprotection with the EC50 value recorded at 192.3 or 297.7 mg/kg, respectively. In the pylorus ligation assay, CEMC and CEMM significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the total and free acidity and volume; while increased the pH of gastric juice as well as the gastric wall mucus content in comparison with the vehicle-treated group.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

CEMC and CEMM exert gastroprotective effects in animals with ethanol-induced gastric ulcers via antioxidant and anti-secretory effects.

Gastroprotective effect of carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) against ethanol-induced oxidative stress in rat

BACKGROUND

We aimed in the present study, at investigating the gastroprotective effect of carob pods aqueous extract (CPAE) against ethanol-induced oxidative stress in rats as well as the mechanism implicated.

METHODS

Adult male wistar rats were used and divided into six groups of ten each: control, EtOH (80% v/v, 4 g/kg b.w.), EtOH 80% + various doses of CPAE (500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg, b.w.) and EtOH + Famotidine (10 mg/kg, p.o.) Animals were perorally (p.o.) pre-treated with CPAE during 15 days and intoxicated with a single oral administration of EtOH (4 g/kg b.w.) for two hours.

RESULTS

The colorimetric analysis demonstrated that the CPAE exhibited an importance in vitro antioxidant activity against ABTS and DPPH radicals. We found that CPAE pretreatment in vivo, protected against EtOH-induced macroscopic and histological changes induced in stomach mucosa. Carob extract administration also protected against alcohol-induced volume gastric juice decrease. More importantly, We showed that CPAE counteracted EtOH-induced gastric lipoperoxidation, reversed the decrease of sulfhydryl groups (-SH) an hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels, and prevented the depletion of antioxidant enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that CPAE exerted a potential gastro-protective effect against EtOH-induced oxidative stress in rats, due in part, to its antioxidants properties.

Prevention of Bacterial Biofilms Formation on Urinary Catheter by Selected Plant Extracts

In this study, we investigated the feasibility of using Psidium guajava, Mangifera indica and Ocimum gratissimum leaf extracts in preventing Escherichia coli biofilm formation. The plants extractions were done with methanol under cold extraction. The various concentrations 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 mg mL(-1) were used to coat 63 catheters under mild heat from water bath. Biofilm formation on the catheter was induced using cultures of E. coli. Biofilm formation was evaluated using aerobic plate count and turbidity at 600 nm. From the obtained results, Psidium guajava, Mangifera indica and Ocimum gratissimum delayed the onset of biofilm formation for a week. Ocimum gratissimum coated catheter had the highest inhibitory effect at 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 mg mL(-1) with bacterial count ranging from 2.2 x 10(5)-7.0 x 10(4) and 5.7 x 10(5)-3.7 x10(5) for 120 and 128 h, respectively. The Psidium guajava coated catheter had the lowest inhibitory effect at 5.0, 10.0 and 20.0 mg mL(-1), with bacterial count ranging between 4.3 x 10(5)-1.9 x 10(3) and 7.7 x 10(5)-3.8 x 10(5) for 120 and 128 h, respectively. Despite the antimicrobial activities, the differences in the activity of these plant extracts were statistically not significant (p < 0.05).

Gastroprotective effect of the iridoid fraction from Barleria prionitis leaves on experimentally-induced gastric ulceration

AIM

To study the gastroprotective effect and in vivo antioxidant potential of a standardized iridoid fraction from B. prionitis leaves (BPE) against different gastric ulcer models in rats.

METHOD

The standardized iridoid fraction from BPE at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg body weight was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from aspirin, ethanol, cold-restraint stress (CRS), and pylorus ligation (PL)-induced ulcers. Estimation of the antioxidant enzyme activity was carried out in a CRS-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters including volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in the PL-induced ulcer model.

RESULTS

BPE showed a dose-dependent ulcer protective effect in PL (18.67%-66.26% protection), aspirin (24.65%-63.25% protection), CRS (20.77%-59.42% protection), and EtOH (16.93%-77.04% protection)-induced ulcers. BPE treatment in PL-rats showed a decrease in acid-pepsin secretion, and enhanced mucin and mucosal glycoproteins. However, BPE reduced the ulcer index with significant decrease in LPO (P < 0.01-0.001), SOD (P < 0.01-0.001), and an increase in CAT (P < 0.01-0.001), activity in the CRS-induced model.

CONCLUSION

The data shows that the iridoid fraction from BPE possesses anti-ulcerogenic and antioxidant potential.

A review on antiulcer activity of few Indian medicinal plants

Ulcer is a common gastrointestinal disorder which is seen among many people. It is basically an inflamed break in the skin or the mucus membrane lining the alimentary tract. Ulceration occurs when there is a disturbance of the normal equilibrium caused by either enhanced aggression or diminished mucosal resistance. It may be due to the regular usage of drugs, irregular food habits, stress, and so forth. Peptic ulcers are a broad term that includes ulcers of digestive tract in the stomach or the duodenum. The formation of peptic ulcers depends on the presence of acid and peptic activity in gastric juice plus a breakdown in mucosal defenses. A number of synthetic drugs are available to treat ulcers. But these drugs are expensive and are likely to produce more side effects when compared to herbal medicines. The literature revealed that many medicinal plants and polyherbal formulations are used for the treatment of ulcer by various ayurvedic doctors and traditional medicinal practitioners. The ideal aims of treatment of peptic ulcer disease are to relieve pain, heal the ulcer, and delay ulcer recurrence. In this review attempts have been made to know about some medicinal plants which may be used in ayurvedic as well as modern science for the treatment or prevention of peptic ulcer.

Gastric antisecretory and cytoprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Plumeria alba Linn. leaves in rats

OBJECTIVE

This study was conducted to evaluate the antiulcerogenic property of hydroalcoholic extract obtained from the leaves of Plumeria alba Linn.

METHODS

Antiulcer assays were performed using the protocols of ulcer induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ethanol and pylorus ligation. The hydroalcoholic extract (HAPA), and various fractions of HAPA like, n-hexane extract (HPA), ethyl acetate extract (EAPA) and n-butanol extract (BPA) were administered at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg for HAPA and 100 and 200 mg/kg for fractions of extracts. Parameters of gastric secretion (volume, pH, total protein, and free and total acidity) were determined by the pylorus ligation model. Parameters like aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were also determined in ethanol-induced ulcer model. To determine the mechanism of action, role of nitric oxide was also evaluated.

RESULTS

EAPA and BPA (100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) showed gastric ulcer-healing effect in indomethacin-induced ulcer model, while HAPA (200 mg/kg) and HPA showed no significant antiulcer effect. Both EAPA and BPA showed gastric cytoprotective effect in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer and inhibited gastric secretion in pylorus-ligated rats.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study show that some hydroalcoholic extract of Plumeria alba L. displays antiulcer activity, as demonstrated by the significant inhibition of ulcer formation induced by different models, which is consistent with the literature report in folk medicine.

Anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic effects of red algae Gracilaria changii (Gracilariales, Rhodophyta) extract

Background

Gracilaria changii (Xia et Abbott) Abbott, Zhang et Xia, a red algae commonly found in the coastal areas of Malaysia is traditionally used for foods and for the treatment of various ailments including inflammation and gastric ailments. The aim of the study was to investigate anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic activities of a mass spectrometry standardized methanolic extract of Gracilaria changii.

Methods

Methanolic extract of Gracilaria changii (MeOHGCM6 extract) was prepared and standardized using mass spectrometry (MS). Anti-inflammatory activities of MeOHGCM6 extract were examined by treating U937 cells during its differentiation with 10 μg/ml MeOHGCM6 extract. Tumour necrosis factors-α (TNF-α) response level and TNF-α and interleukin-6 (IL-6) gene expression were monitored and compared to that treated by 10 nM betamethasone, an anti-inflammatory drug. Gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic activities of MeOHGCM6 extract were examined by feeding rats with MeOHGCM6 extract ranging from 2.5 to 500 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) following induction of gastric lesions. Production of mucus and gastric juice, pH of the gastric juice and non-protein sulfhydryls (NP-SH) levels were determined and compared to that fed by 20 mg/kg b.w. omeprazole (OMP), a known anti-ulcer drug.

Results

MS/MS analysis of the MeOHGCM6 extracts revealed the presence of methyl 10-hydroxyphaeophorbide a and 10-hydroxypheophytin a, known chlorophyll proteins and several unidentified molecules. Treatment with 10 μg/ml MeOHGCM6 extract during differentiation of U937 cells significantly inhibited TNF-α response level and TNF-α and IL-6 gene expression. The inhibitory effect was comparable to that of betamethasone. No cytotoxic effects were recorded for cells treated with the 10 μg/ml MeOHGCM6 extract. Rats fed with MeOHGCM6 extract at 500 mg/kg b.w. showed reduced absolute ethanol-induced gastric lesion sizes by > 99% (p < 0.05). This protective effect was comparable to that conferred by OMP. The pH of the gastric mucus decreased in dose-dependent manner from 5.51 to 3.82 and there was a significant increase in NP-SH concentrations.

Conclusions

Results from the study, suggest that the mass spectrometry standardized methanolic extract of Gracillaria changii possesses anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic properties. Further examination of the active constituent of the extract and its mechanism of action is warranted in the future.

Gastroprotective Effect of Oxalis corniculata (Whole Plant) on Experimentally Induced Gastric Ulceration in Wistar Rats

The objective of the present study was to investigate the antiulcer activity of methanol extract of Oxalis corniculata (whole plant) using pylorus ligation and indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration in Wistar rats. The extract was preliminary evaluated for acute oral toxicity test using Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development guidelines 423. Further, it was studied for antiulcer potential at the dose levels of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg. Ranitidine was used as a standard drug (100 mg/kg). Acid secretory parameters like gastric volume, pH, total acidity and free acidity were measured in pylorus ligation model, whereas numbers of ulcers, ulcers score and ulcer index was measured in pylorus ligated and indomethacin treated rats. Pretreatment of test extract significantly (p<0.05) decreased the gastric volume, total acidity, free acidity and increase in the pH of the gastric fluid in pylorus-ligated rats. It also showed significant (p<0.05) decrease in number of ulcers, ulcers score and ulcer index in pylorus ligated and indomethacin treated rats. Results of the study suggest that, the methanol extract of Oxalis corniculata possesses significant antisecretory and antiulcer effects and justify the traditional usage of this herb to treat peptic ulcers.

Antiulcer activity of the chloroform extract of Bauhinia purpurea leaf

CONTEXT

Bauhinia purpurea L. (Fabaceae) is a native plant species of many Asian countries, including Malaysia and India. In India, the root, stem, bark, and leaf of B. purpurea are used to treat various ailments, including ulcers and stomach cancer.

OBJECTIVE

In an attempt to establish its pharmacological potential, we studied the antiulcer activity of lipid-soluble extract of B. purpurea obtained via extraction of air-dried leaves using chloroform.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The rats were administered the chloroform extract (dose range of 100-1000 mg/kg) orally after 24 h fasting. They were subjected to the absolute ethanol- and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer, and pyloric ligation assays after 30 min. The acute toxicity study was conducted using a single oral dose of 5000 mg/kg extract and the rats were observed for the period of 14 days. omeprazole (30 mg/kg) was used as the standard control.

RESULTS

At 5000 mg/kg, the extract produced no sign of toxicity in rats. The extract exhibited significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent antiulcer activity for the ethanol-induced model. The extract also significantly (p < 0.05) increased the gastric wall mucus production and pH of gastric content, while significantly (p < 0.05) reducing the total volume and total acidity of the gastric content in the pylorus ligation assay.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

The extract possesses antiulcer, antisecretory and cytoprotective activities, which could be attributed to its flavonoid and tannin content. These findings provide new information regarding the potential of lipid-soluble compounds of B. purpurea for the prevention and treatment of gastric ulcers.

Antiulcer Activity of Hydroalchol Extract of Momordica dioica roxb. Fruit

The present study was carried out to evaluate antiulcer activity of hydroalcohol extract of Momordica dioica Roxb. fruit. Momordica dioica Roxb. fruit extract (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight) was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from ethanol, cold-restraint stress and pylorus ligation-induced ulcers. Estimation of H(+)-K(+) ATPase activity and gastric wall mucous were performed in ethanol-induced ulcer model, antioxidant enzyme activities was carried out in cold-restraint stress-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters like volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in pylorus ligation-induced ulcer model. A significant reduction in lesion index was observed in ulcer-induced animals pre treated with extract at different doses when compared with ulcerated rats in all models. A significant decrease occurred in the level of H(+)-K(+) ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Gastric wall mucus and pH were increased significantly. These showed dose-dependent action of extract. LPO and antioxidant enzyme levels of SOD were decreased, but CAT enzyme showed significant increase. Thus the results indicate that the Momordica dioica extract possess antiulcerogenic effect, that attributable to augmentation of gastric defense mechanisms.

Gastroprotective effect of standardized leaf extract from Argyreia speciosa on experimental gastric ulcers in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Argyreia speciosa (L.f), Sweet (Family Convolvulaceae) is used traditionally in Indian System of Medicine as aphrodisiac, rejuvenating agent, intellect promoting agent, brain tonic and in the therapy of hepatomegaly, diabetes and chronic ulcer.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To study the gastroprotective effect of standardized butanol fraction of Argyreia speciosa leaf (ASE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The butanol fraction of Argyreia speciosa leaf (ASE; 50, 100 and 200mg/kg body weight) was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from Aspirin (ASP)-, ethanol (EtOH)-, cold-restraint stress (CRS) - and pylorus ligation (PL)-induced ulcers. Estimation of antioxidant enzymes activity was carried out in CRS-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters like volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in PL-induced ulcer model.

RESULT

ASE showed dose-dependent ulcer protective effect in ASP 23.64-58.76% (p<0.01 to p<0.001), EtOH 15.45-58.45% (p<0.001), CRS 19.39-78.36% (p<0.001) and PL 19.67-69.04% (p<0.05 to p<0.01), respectively. The percentage of protection by standard drug ranitidine was 77.77-84.32% (p<0.01 to p<0.001) in various gastric ulcer models. The gastric wall mucus was significantly (p<0.001) enhanced by ASE and is regarded as the first line of defence against EtOH-induced gastric ulcers showing cytoprotective property. ASE showed a marginal decrease in volume, acid pepsin concentration and acid pepsin output. However, ASE reduced the ulcer index with significant decrease in LPO level (p<0.001), and SOD level (p<0.01 to p<0.001) as compared with CRS-induced group. A gradual and significant increase in CAT values were observed at 100 and 200mg/kg dose levels (p<0.01 to p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study revealed that Argyreia speciosa possess significant dose dependent gastroprotective activity, probably due to its free radical scavenging activity.

Apple peel polyphenols protect against gastrointestinal mucosa alterations induced by indomethacin in rats

The stability of an apple peel polyphenol extract (APPE) with powerful antioxidant activity was evaluated under acidic conditions in vitro, and its protective effect against gastrointestinal damage was investigated in rats treated with indomethacin. The antioxidant activity of APPE remained stable at pH 2.0 for 4 h. In rats treated with indomethacin (40 mg/kg ig), the previous administration of APPE protected the gastric, intestinal, and colonic mucosa from oxidative stress by preventing increased malondialdehyde concentrations and decreasing the GSH/GSSG ratio. APPE also displayed anti-inflammatory effects by preventing neutrophil infiltration in the mucosa, as evidenced by the lower myeloperoxidase activity. These protective effects of APPE resulted in the prevention of macro- and microscopic damage and of barrier dysfunction along the gastrointestinal tract of the indomethacin-treated animals. This study supports the concept that apple peel polyphenols may be useful in the prevention and/or treatment of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-associated side effects.

Gastroprotective and ulcer healing effects of essential oil from Hyptis spicigera Lam. (Lamiaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hyptis Jacq. (Lamiaceae) is being used in traditional medicine to treat fever, inflammation and gastric disturbances. Hyptis spicigera Lam. is a native plant distributed across the central region of Brazil. The essential oil extracted from this plant is used in folk medicine as antipyretic.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The effects of the essential oil obtained from the aerial parts of Hyptis spicigera (OEH) were evaluated for their gastroprotective and healing activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

OEH chemical composition was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The gastroprotective action of the OEH was evaluated in rodent experimental models (ethanol and NSAID). To elucidate mechanisms of action, the antisecretory action and involvements of NO, SH, mucus and PGE2 were evaluated. The acetic acid-induced gastric ulcer model and Western Blot assay (COX-2 and EGF) were also used to evaluate the OEH healing capacity.

RESULTS

GC-MS analysis of OEH indicated three monoterpenes as major compounds: alpha-pinene (50.8%), cineole (20.3%) and beta-pinene (18.3%) and, at the dose of 100 mg/Kg, p.o., OEH provided effective gastroprotection against lesions induced by absolute ethanol (97%) and NSAID (84%) in rats. OEH do not interfere with H+ secretion in gastric mucosa and its gastric protection does not depend on nitric oxide (NO) and sulfhydryl compounds (SH). The gastroprotective action of OEH occurs due to an increase in the gastric mucus production (28%) induced by PGE2 levels. Furthermore, OEH demonstrated a great healing capacity with 87% of reduction in ulcerative lesion area. It accelerated the healing of acetic acid-induced gastric lesions due to an increase in COX-2 (75%) and EGF (115%) expression in gastric mucosa. No sign of toxicity was observed in this study, considering the analyzed parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

All these results suggest the efficacy and safety of Hyptis spicigera in combating and healing gastric ulcer. Considering the results, it is suggested that the OEH could probably be a good therapeutic agent for the development of new phytotherapeutic medicine for the treatment of gastric ulcer.

Gastroprotective Effect of Rubia cordifolia Linn. on Aspirin Plus Pylorus-Ligated Ulcer

The present study was designed to investigate the effect of Rubia cordifolia (Rubiaceae) against experimentally induced gastric ulcer and compare activity with its fractions by employing aspirin plus pylorus-ligated ulcer screening model in Wistar rats. Total acidity, volume of gastric acid secretion, total acid output, and pepsin activity show significant reduction, when compared with the control group. The present study confirmed that chloroform fraction showed the significant activity at lower doses compared to parent extract. The mechanism can be attributed to decrease in gastric acid secretary activity along with strengthening of mucosal defensive mechanism by prostaglandin synthesis and antioxidant potential.

Propolis: is there a potential for the development of new drugs?

INTRODUCTION

Propolis has plenty of biological and pharmacological properties and its mechanisms of action have been widely investigated in the last years, using different experimental models in vitro and in vivo. Researchers have been interested in the investigation of isolated compounds responsible for propolis action; however, there is lack of clinical research on the effects of propolis.

STRATEGY AND OBJECTIVES

Since propolis-containing products have been marketed and humans have used propolis for different purposes, the goal of this review is to discuss the potential of propolis for the development of new drugs, by comparing data from the literature that suggest candidate areas for the establishment of drugs against tumors, infections, allergy, diabetes, ulcers and with immunomodulatory action.

CONCLUSIONS

The efficacy of propolis in different protocols in vitro and in vivo suggests its therapeutic properties, but before establishing a strategy using this bee product, it is necessary to study: (a) the chemical nature of the propolis sample. (b) Propolis efficacy should be compared to well-established parameters, e.g. positive or negative controls in the experiments. Moreover, possible interactions between propolis and other medicines should be investigated in humans as well. (c) Clinical investigation is needed to evaluate propolis potential in patients or healthy individuals, to understand under which conditions propolis may promote health. Data point out the importance of this research field not only for the readers and researchers in the scientific community waiting for further clarification on the potential of propolis but also for the pharmaceutical industry that looks for new drugs.

Effect of Mouriri pusa tannins and flavonoids on prevention and treatment against experimental gastric ulcer

AIM OF THE STUDY

Mouriri pusa, popularly known as "manapuçá" or "jaboticaba do mato", is a plant from Brazilian cerrado that has been found to be commonly used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disturbs in its native region. The present work was carried out to investigate the effect of tannins (TF) and flavonoids (FF) fractions from Mouriri pusa leaves methanolic extract on the prevention and cicatrisation process of gastric ulcers, and also evaluate possible toxic effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The following protocols were taken in rats: acute assay, in which ulcers were induced by oral ethanol after pre-treatment with the fractions; and 14 days treatment assay, in which ulcers were treated for 14 days after induction by local injection of acetic acid.

RESULTS

In the acute model, treatment with either, TF (25mg/kg) or FF (50mg/kg), was able to reduce lesion area, showing gastroprotective effect. In addition, FF proved itself anti-inflammatory by reducing COX-2 levels. In acetic acid model, both fractions exhibited larger ulcers' regenerative mucosa, indicating cicatrisation enhancement. FF group also showed augmented cell proliferation, anti-inflammatory action and enhanced angiogenesis as well as increased mucus secretion. Moreover, concerning the toxicity parameters analyzed, no alteration in the fractions groups was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Tannins and flavonoids from Mouriri pusa provide beneficial effects against gastric ulcers with relative safety.

Gastroprotective activity of Cinnamomum tamala leaves on experimental gastric ulcers in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cinnamomum tamala T. Nees & Eberm (Family Lauraceae) is used traditionally in Indian System of Medicine as carminative, anthelmintic, diuretic, and used in colic, dyspepsia, and diarrhea.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was aimed to evaluate the gastroprotective effects of Cinnamomum tamala leaves.

METHODS

Cinnamomum tamala leaves extract (CTE; 50,100 and 200mg/kg body weight) was administered orally, twice daily for 5 days for prevention from ethanol (EtOH)-, cold-restraint stress (CRS)- and pylorus ligation (PL)-induced ulcers. Estimation of H(+)K(+)ATPase activity and gastric wall mucous were performed in EtOH-induced ulcer model, antioxidant enzyme activities was carried out in CRS-induced ulcer model, and various gastric secretion parameters like volume of gastric juice, acid output, and pH value were estimated in PL-induced ulcer model.

RESULTS

A significant reduction in lesion index was observed in ulcer-induced animals treated with CTE at different doses when compared with ulcerated rats in all models. A significant decrease occurred in the level of H(+)K(+)ATPase, volume of gastric juice, and acid output. Simultaneously the level of gastric wall mucus and pH were increased significantly. These showed dose-dependent action of CTE. The antioxidant enzyme levels of LPO and SOD were decreased while administering CTE at different doses, compared with their control values. Contrary to this the level of CAT enzyme showed significant increase.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our study showed that Cinnamomum tamala possess significant gastroprotective activity, probably due to its free radical scavenging activity.

Studies on activity of various extracts of Mentha arvensis Linn against drug induced gastric ulcer in mammals

AIM: To examine the antiulcerogenic effects of various extracts of Mentha arvensis Linn on acid, ethanol and pylorus ligated ulcer models in rats and mice.

METHODS: Various crude extracts of petroleum ether, chloroform, or aqueous at a dose of 2 g/kg po did not produce any signs or symptoms of toxicity in treated animals. In the pyloric ligation model oral administration of different extracts such as petroleum ether, chloroform and aqueous at 375 mg/kg po, standard drug ranitidine 60 mg/kg po and control group 1% Tween 80, 5 mL/kg po to separate groups of Wister rats of either sex (n = 6) was performed. Total acidity, ulcer number, scoring, incidence, area, and ulcer index were assessed.

RESULTS: There was a decrease in gastric secretion and ulcer index among the treated groups i.e. petroleum ether (53.4%), chloroform (59.2%), aqueous (67.0%) and in standard drug (68.7%) when compared to the negative control. In the 0.6 mol/L HCl induced ulcer model in rats (n = 6) there was a reduction in ulcerative score in animals receiving petroleum ether (50.5%), chloroform (57.4%), aqueous (67.5%) and standard. drug (71.2%) when compared to the negative control. In the case of the 90% ethanol-induced ulceration model (n = 6) in mice, there was a decrease in ulcer score in test groups of petroleum ether (53.11%), chloroform (62.9%), aqueous (65.4%) and standard drug ranitidine (69.7%) when compared to the negative control. It was found that pre-treatment with various extracts of Mentha arvensis Linn in three rat/mice ulcer models ie ibuprofen plus pyloric ligation, 0.6 mol/L HCl and 90% ethanol produced significant action against acid secretion (49.3 ± 0.49 vs 12.0 ± 0.57, P < 0.001). Pre-treatment with various extracts of Mentha arvensis Linn showed highly -significant activity against gastric ulcers (37.1 ± 0.87 vs 12.0 ± 0.57, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Various extracts of Mentha arvensis Linn. 375 mg/kg body weight clearly shows a protective effect against acid secretion and gastric ulcers in ibuprofen plus pyloric ligation, 0.6 mol/L HCl induced and 90% ethanol-induced ulcer models.

Polyphenols with antiulcerogenic action from aqueous decoction of mango leaves (Mangifera indica L.)

This study was designed to determine the gastroprotective effect of a Mangifera indica leaf decoction (AD), on different experimental models in rodents. The administration of AD up to a dose of 5 g/kg (p.o.) did not produce any signs or symptoms of toxicity in the treated animals, while significantly decreasing the severity of gastric damage induced by several gastroprotective models. Oral pre-treatment with AD (250, 500 or 1000 mg/kg) in mice and rats with gastric lesions induced by HCl/ethanol, absolute ethanol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or stress-induced gastric lesions resulted in a significant decrease of said lesions. Phytochemical analyses of AD composition demonstrated the presence of bioactive phenolic compounds that represent 57.3% of total phenolic content in this extract. Two main phenolic compounds were isolated, specifically mangiferin (C-glucopyranoside of 1,3,6,7-tetrahydroxyxanthone) and C-glucosyl-benzophenone (3-C-β-D-glucopyranosyl-4’,2,4,6-tetrahydroxybenzophenone). These findings indicate the potential gastroprotective properties of aqueous decoction from M. indica leaves.

Evaluation of antiulcer activity of the main phenolic acids found in Brazilian Green Propolis

AIM OF THE STUDY

In a previous study, our group described the gastric protective effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Brazilian green propolis. The main compounds found in Brazilian green propolis include phenolic acids, such as: caffeic, ferulic, p-coumaric and cinnamic acids. This study was therefore carried out to evaluate the antiulcerogenic property of the main phenolic acids found in Brazilian Green Propolis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The anti-ulcer assays were performed using the following protocols: nonsteroidal-antiinflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced ulcer, ethanol-induced ulcer, and stress-induced ulcer. The effects of the phenolic acids on gastric content volume, pH and total acidity, using the pylorus ligated model, were also evaluated.

RESULTS

It was observed that treatment using doses of 50 and 250 mg/kg of caffeic, ferulic, p-coumaric and cinnamic acids and positive controls (omeprazol or cimetidine) significantly diminished the lesion index, the total area of the lesion and the percentage of lesion in comparison with the negative control groups. In addition, the percentage of ulcer inhibition was significantly higher in the groups treated with the different phenolic acids, cimetidine or omeprazol, in all the protocols used, compared with the negative control groups. In the model to determine gastric secretion, using ligated pylorus, treatment with phenolic acids and cimetidine reduced the volume of gastric juice and total acidity and significantly increased the gastric pH (p<0.05), compared with the control group, with the exception of the group treated with 50mg/kg of p-coumaric acid, in which no significant difference was observed, compared with the control. In relation to the acute toxicity, none sign of toxicity was observed when phenolic acids, used in this study, were administered for rats in dose of 2,000 mg/kg.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the results of this study show that caffeic, ferulic, p-coumaric and cinnamic acids display antiulcer activity.