Publication:

Evaluation of antiulcer activity of ethanolic leaf extract of Coccinia grandis in indomethacin induced gastric ulcer model

Background Gastric mucosal ulceration is the most common adverse effect with NSAIDS. Antacids, H2 blockers and PPIs are considered novel in treating ulcers but are not devoid of side effects. Hence, there a need for a drug which is effective against NSAID induced ulcers with no side effects. Coccinia grandis plant is traditionally used for the treatment of gastric/peptic ulcers. Hence, this study has been undertaken to scientifically validate the antiulcer activity of Coccinia grandis leaves against indomethacin induced gastric ulcer model.

Methods Following preparation of the extract, 24 Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups with 6 rats in each group (n=6). Group 1 received 1% CMC, group 2 received 1% CMC +indomethacin 40 mg/kg, group 3 received ethanolic leaf extract of Coccinia grandis 200 mg/kg +indomethacin 40 mg/kg and group 4 received omeprazole (2 mg/kg) +indomethzacin 40 mg/kg for 7 days. Calculation of ulcer score was done using ulcer index and percentage protection.

Results The ulcer index score (2.12±0.21) and percentage protection (69.71%) was comparable with the standard drug (1.76±0.11, 74.85%) respectively.

Conclusions The ethanolic leaf extract of Coccinia grandis showed significant antiulcer activity against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the exact mechanism of antiulcer activity.