Investigation into the Anti-ulcer Activity of the Aqueous Leaf Extract of Aspilia africana

The objective of this study was to investigate the antiulcer activity of leaves of Aspilia africana C.D. Adams (Compositae) in rats. Fresh dried leaves of A. africana were extracted by hot water maceration and the yield freeze dried. Antiulcer effects of the aqueous extract at 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg were evaluated in rats using ethanol, indomethacin and aspirin induced ulcer methods. Phytochemical analysis and lethality tests (LD50) were carried out using standard methods. Results showed that the aqueous extract exhibited significant (p<0.05) and dose dependent anti-ulcer activity in all ulcer models. Percentage ulcer inhibitions of extract at 100 mg/kg for ethanol, indomethacin and aspirin induced ulcers were 73.0, 60.9 and 87.6%, respectively. Ulcer protections in all the models by the extract were dose-dependent. The ulcer inhibitory effects of the extract were comparable with those of standard drugs especially in the drug-induced ulcers. Oral LD50 value greater than 5000 mg/kg was obtained indicating the safety of the plant for consumption. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of glycosides, tannins, alkaloids, saponins and flavonoids. Therefore results of our study suggest the aqueous extract of A. africana possesses antiulcer activity as claimed by its folkloric use.