Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiulcer effects of Moroccan <i>Ceratonia siliqua</i> pulp in animal models

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiulcer effects of methanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua (Fabaceae). Methods: The methanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua pulp was obtained using Soxhlet apparatus. Xylene (20 µL) induced ear  inflammation  administered intraperitoneally and HCl/ethanol solution (1 mL) induced gastric ulceration administered intra-gastrically   were used to induce inflammation and gastric ulcer, respectively. Twenty-four mice were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 6).   Furthermore, eighteen rats (Sprague Dawley) were divided into 4 groups. Control group received (10 mL/kg of saline), Ceratonia siliqua   group received (250 and 500 mg/kg), and other groups received diclofenac sodium (10 mg/kg; p,o), and omeprazole (30 mg/kg; p,o).   Phytochemical screening was carried out by following standard procedures. The percentage of inhibition, pH, and ulceration index were   measured using pH metric titration and degree of ulceration. The antioxidant capacity was determined in vitro using radical DPPH   scavenging and FRAP assays. Results: Phytochemical screening reveals the presence of flavonoids, tannins, quinones and sterols. Acute   toxicity assessment showed that methanolic extract of Ceratonia siliqua has a DL50 higher than 5 g/kg. Oral administration of methanolic   extract of Ceratonia siliqua (500 mg/kg) reduced significantly (p < 0.001) the percentage inflammation and ulceration index  in  both assays in comparison to control groups, these effects were comparable to those observed in reference drugs. The extract   possessed a strong antioxidant capacity with low IC50. Conclusion: Ceratonia siliqua extract has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti- ulcer properties. Standardization of Ceratonia siliqua extract will be required for the development of lead molecules against ulcers and   inflammation.