Exploring the Gastroprotective and Antioxidant Potential of Ocimum tenuiflorum Ethanol Extract in an Ethanol-Induced Gastric Ulcer Model

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to provide pharmacological evidence of Ocimum tenuiflorum in preventing or healing peptic ulcers

Methods: The leaves of Ocimum tenuiflorum were collected from the western ghats of India and dried in a shed followed by extraction using the Soxhlet apparatus. Following extraction, Phytochemical tests were performed to check the presence of phytoconstituents. To demonstrate the antiulcer effect Ethanol-induced ulceration method was used. The extract’s antioxidant activity and free radicle scavenging activity were studied using DPPH assay & DMSO test. The healing effect was Investigated after 7 days of dosing with extract at the doses of 125 mg/kg, 250mg/kg & 500 mg/kg. The ulcer index and pH of excised tissue were measured and the sample was analysed for histopathological changes. Malondialdehyde and nitric oxide tests were also performed to test the mucoprotective properties.

Results: The extract of Ocimum tenuiflorum at 250mg/kg & 500mg/kg reduced ulcer index and showed mucosal protection in histopathological evaluation against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in mice. The plant extract had IC₅₀ of 226 (µg/ml) and showed strong antioxidant and free radicle scavenging properties.

Conclusion: Ocimum tenuiflorum plant showed positive results in gastric cytoprotection and ulcer healing. Further investigations are needed to highlight mechanism-based effects.