Effect of Methanol Seed Extract of Acacia nilotica on Indomethacin-Induced Ulcer in Wistar Rats.

Abstract

Ulcers are acid-induced lesions that develop on the mucous membrane and duodenum, often accompanied by inflammation, leading to abdominal pain, bleeding and perforation. Current treatments strategies for ulcers have limitations, including side effects, antibiotic resistance, and recurrence. Therefore, there is a need for alternative therapeutic agents with minimal side effects. Traditionally, medicinal plants which include Acacia nilotica, have been used for centuries to treat wide range of ailments including ulcer. The aim of this study was to authenticate this claim by investigating the effects of Acacia nilotica seed extract on indomethacin induced ulcer in Wistar rats. The phytochemical composition of Acacia nilotica, total acidity, pH, gastric volume and histopathological examinations were determined using standard methods. Six groups (three per group) of rats were induced with ulcer and treated with a standard drug and different concentrations of Acacia nilotica seed extract. Thereafter, the body weight of the animals were observed for a period of 21 days and then, sacrificed. The result showed the presence of bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, saponins and tannins with phenols having highest concentration (274.73±0.22 mg/100 g) while alkaloids had the lowest concentration (13.20±0.15 mg/100 g). The results also showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in body weight in groups treated with Acacia nilotica seed extract when compared to the untreated group. Again, Acacia nilotica seed extract, particularly at the 400mg/kg body weight dose showed significant (p < 0.05) differences in the antiulcerative effects, with total acidity (64.07±1.08 meq/L)), pH (2.94±0.16), gastric volume (7.40±0.47 ml) and mild gastric mucosal damage as compared to the untreated group; indicating significant protection. The results demonstrate the potential of Acacia nilotica extract as the natural source of antiulcer and this suggests that the plant could have relevance in the management of ulcer disorders.