EVALUATION OF ECHINACEA PURPUREA LEAVES EXTRACT FOR ANTI ULCER EFFECT IN EXPERIMENTAL RATS

Rohit Choudhary*, Praveen Kumr

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated the anti-ulcer potential of 50% ethanolic extract of Echinacea purpurea leaves using experimental animal models, conducted with approval from the Institutional Animal Ethical Committee (IAEC), complying with CPCSEA guidelines. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, phenols, tannins, quinones, and steroids. Pharmacological evaluation employed aspirin-induced and pylorus ligation-induced ulcer models in rats. The extract demonstrated significant dose-dependent reduction in ulcer index and gastric acidity parameters, with protective effects comparable to the standard anti-ulcer drug, omeprazole. Histopathological studies supported the gastroprotective effects, showing preserved gastric mucosa integrity. The extract also significantly decreased gastric volume, total and free acidity, and pepsin concentration, while increasing gastric pH. These findings suggest that Echinacea extract possesses potent anti-ulcer activity, potentially mediated through multiple mechanisms including reduction of gastric secretions and mucosal protection, warranting further investigation for clinical application.

Keywords: Histopathological studies supported the gastroprotective effects, showing preserved gastric mucosa integrity.