Anti-Ulcerogenic and Toxicological Evaluation of Polyphenol Rich Extract of Cochlospermum Planchonii Roots in Tissues of Aspirin-Induced Ulcerogenic Rats

The folkloric use of Cochlospermum planchonii roots as an anti-ulcerogenic and its safety is yet to be affirmed with scientific confirmation and this study is designed to do that. This study evaluated the anti-ulcerogenic activity and safety of polyphenol rich extract of Cochlospermum planchonii (PRECPR) roots in aspirin-induced ulcerogenic rats. These roots were processed to give dosages of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg bodyweight. Thirty rats (138.0 ± 5.0 g) were assigned into six groups. Rats in group A (control) received 1.0 ml of distilled water. Those in groups B – F were administered 200 mg/kg body weight of aspirin and then treated with 1.0 ml of distilled water, 1.0 ml equivalent to 0.05 mg/kg body weight of omeprazole, 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg body weight of PRECPR, respectively. PRECPR dose-dependently increased (p > 0.05) nitric oxide, pH, activities of enzymes, concentrations of bilirubin, creatinine, haematological indices and decreased pepsinogen, volume and acidity of the gastric juice significantly. These results compared favourably (p < 0.05) with those of omeprazole treated group. This study provided strong indication that this extract could serve as an anti-ulcerogenic agent that is safe.