Evaluation of Gastric Anti-ulcer activity and acute toxicity of ethanolic leaf extracts of Plectranthus caespitosus Lukhoba & A.J. Paton in winstar albino rats.

Abstract

Plectranthus caespitosus is a plant used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments, including gastric ulcers. The aim of this study was to assess the phytochemistry, acute toxicity, and anti-ulcer activity of the ethanolic leaf extract of P. caespitosus in Winstar albino rats. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds in the extract. The acute toxicity test showed that the extract was safe up to doses above 5000 mg/kg, with no adverse effects on the skin or body weight of the animals. The anti-ulcer activity was evaluated using the ethanol-induced ulcer model. The extract showed a significant reduction in ulcer scores compared to the negative control group. The results suggest that P. caespitosus has potential anti-ulcer properties, which may be attributed to its phytochemical constituents and their synergistic effects.