Antiulcerogenic and antioxidant effects of <i>Coccinia grandis</i> (Linn.) Voigt leaves on aspirin-induced gastric ulcer in rats

Abstract

The effect of <b><i>Coccinia grandis</i> (Linn.)Voigt</b> leaves powder, its methanol and aqueous extracts were investigated on aspirin-induced gastric ulcer model in rats. The leaf powder showed a significant dose related decrease in ulcer index, with significant increase in mucus secretion and decrease in level of Lipid peroxidation (LPO) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Methanol extract at an equivalent dose to that of the powder also showed a significant decrease in ulcer index with significant changes in mucus secretion, LPO and SOD. However, aqueous extract was found to be non-significant in reducing ulcer index. The group, receiving standard drug Famotidine, showed no effect on the mucus secretion induced in this experimental model. These observations confirm the antiulcerogenic potential of this plant, probably due to increased mucus secretion and antioxidant property.