Gastroprotective Effect of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Chromolaena odorata (Siam Weed) against Indomethacin-Induced Ulceration in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Gastric ulcers remain a clinically relevant gastrointestinal disorder, and some conventional anti-ulcer therapies are associated with undesirable side effects. Traditional medical practice has suggested that Chromolaena odorata may possess anti-ulcer, anti-haemorrhagic and wound-healing properties. This study assessed the gastroprotective potential of aqueous leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata against indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration in Wistar rats. Twenty Wistar rats weighing approximately 54–136 g were divided into five groups of four animals each. Group I received normal saline (3 mL/kg b.w.), Group II received omeprazole (8 mg/kg b.w.), while Groups III, IV and V received 3, 6 and 9 mL/kg b.w. of the extract, respectively. After 24 hours of fasting with free access to water, the animals were pretreated, followed one hour later by oral administration of 100 mg/kg b.w. aqueous indomethacin suspension. Four hours after ulcer induction, the animals were euthanised, and their stomachs were excised for ulcer scoring and histological assessment. The extract reduced ulceration at all tested doses, with the 6 mL/kg b.w. dose showing the highest percentage ulcer inhibition (76.09%). Histological findings in this group showed granulated tissue and mature fibrous scar tissue, indicating tissue repair. The findings support the traditional use of C. odorata for gastric ailments, although further studies are required to establish dosage, mechanism of action and clinical relevance.