Evaluation of anti-ulcer potential of 80% ethanol extract and solvent fractions of aerial part of desmodium canescens (l) dc. (fabaecae) using rat model of asprin - induced ulcer

Background: Desmodium canescens (L) DC (Fabaeceae) is used by Chagga of Kilimanjaro Region to treat peptic ulcer. This study aimed to evaluate anti-ulcer potential of ethanol extract of aerial part of the plant. Methods: The crude ethanol extract of DC was orally administered to rats one hour before ulcer induction. Dose of 200, 350 and 600mg/kg were administered to evaluate its potential to protect rats from aspirin induced gastric ulceration in comparison with ranitidine 30mg/kg body weight. Volume and pH of gastric juice was measured. Ulcer index for each experimental group was determined. Phytochemical groups present in the extract were also determined Results: The 80% ethanol extract of DC showed protection against aspirin induced gastric ulceration. The extract protected the rat stomach from ulceration by 76%, 94%, 96% at doses of (200, 350 and 600) mg/kg respectively (P ≤ 0.001), as compared to solvent treated rats. Ranitidine, the histamine blocker, 30mg/kg protected the rat stomach by 100%. Conclusions: The results support the use of DC as herbal medicine for peptic ulcers. The group of compounds found in the extract may have contributed its anti-ulcer potential. Recommendations: Due to results shown, it is recommended that, more long term studies for safety and identification of active compound(s) to be done in order to enable use of this herb for management of peptic ulcers