Phytochemical and Anti-ulcer Properties of Allophylus africanus P Beauv. (Sapindaceae) Leaf

Abstract

Introduction: Ulcer has remained a persistent discomforting illness commonly causes by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori and prolonged or excessive use of anti-inflammatory pain killers like aspirin. While existing cases are difficult to treat and ,treat new cases are being diagnosed. Current treatments do not seem to be giving much hope to patients. Natural product and plant-based preparation are offering some measure of hope. Allophylus africanus has been reported to be effective in traditional medicine as an anti-ulcer agent. Objectives of the Study: This research aims to evaluate the antiulcer properties of the crude methanol extract of the leaf of the plant. Methodology: The plant material was extracted using the cold maceration. Methods: The acute toxicity was investigated according to Lorke’s method, while antiulcer activity was evaluated using stress and ethanol models, Omeprazole (200 mg/ml) was the reference drug. Phytochemical analysis of the crude extract was carried out using standard methods. Results: The crude extract is non-toxic at a below 5000 mg/kg dose. Preliminary phytochemical tests showed the presence of alkaloids. Saponins, tannins, flavonoids, carbohydrates, proteins, terpenoids etc. There was no significant between the activity of the standard drug (omeprazole 20mg/kg) and the crude extract (500 mg/kg) at (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: A. africanus has ulcer prevention activity and its use in the treatment of ulcer in ethnomedicine is justified.