International Journal of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences (ISSN 2226-9614)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
VOLUME 27(21) (2025)
Gastro-protective Effect of Ageratum conyzoides (Linn) Leaf Extract on Aspirin-Induced Ulcer in Albino Rats
* S.C. Chukwudoruo1, S.C. Okereke2, C.O. Nwaokezie 3, C.G. Nwaekpe 1, F.E. Ochijeh1, C.P. Okafor1, J.I. Nwaiwu1
1Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria.
2Department of Biochemistry, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
3Department of Biochemistry, Rivers State University, Port-Harcourt, Nigeria.
Abstract
This study examined the protective effects of Ageratum conyzoides leaf extract on ulcers in albino rats. Thirty-two male rats were divided into two groups: twelve for the acute toxicity study and twenty for the ulcer experiment, divided into four groups. Group A (normal control) received 2ml of distilled water and 0.03ml Tween 80. Group B (negative control) was administered 400mg/kg aspirin. Group C was treated with 20mg/kg omeprazole and 400mg/kg aspirin, while Group D received 500mg/kg of Ageratum conyzoides extract and 400mg/kg aspirin. Rats were fasted for 24 hours with access to water, and Groups C and D received their respective treatments 30 minutes before aspirin. No mortality was recorded in the acute toxicity test, even at 5000mg/kg. Gastric juice volume significantly increased in Group B but decreased in Groups C and D (p<0.05). pH levels dropped significantly in Group B (p<0.05), while free acidity, total acidity, and pepsin activity increased, indicating ulceration. These values were reduced in Groups C and D. Ulcer index increased in Group B, but the percentage inhibition in Groups C and D were 62% and 66%, respectively, compared to Group B. The anti-ulcerogenic effects of Ageratum conyzoides could be linked to its bioactive compounds. The novelty of the study is that Ageratum conyzoides (500 mg/kg) provides better gastro-protection (66% inhibition) than omeprazole (62%) in aspirin-induced ulceration. It also emerges as a potent, natural, and cost-effective alternative to synthetic anti-ulcer drugs. This study supports its further development for ulcer management.
Keywords: Ageratum conyzoides, Aspirin, Omeprazole, Ulcer, Bioactive
Full length article *Corresponding Author, e-mail: cchukwudoruo@gmail.com Doi # https://doi.org/10.62877/7-IJCBS-25-27-21-7