Abstract

Artemisia parviflora Roxb.(Asteraceae) has medicinal properties. This study evaluates the gastroprotective potential of A. parviflora seeds against aspirin induced ulcers in albino rabbits.Thirty-six rabbits were randomly divided into 6 equal groups (n = 6). Group 1 was control; group 2 received aspirin for 14 days; group 3 received omeprazole + aspirin for 14 days; groups 4, 5, and 6 received A. parviflora seed powder 250, 500, and 750 mg/kg, respectively along with aspirin, for 14 days. Total oxidant status (TOS), totalantioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and catalase (CAT) were determined to check the gastric damage. Ulcer score, gastric volume, gastric pH, and total acid output was also measured to determine gastroprotective potential of A. parviflora. A. parviflora seed powder exhibit gastroprotective potential with significant reduction in the ulcer score, acid output, and gastric volume while the pH of gastric mucosa increases significantly at the dose of 750 mg/kg when compared to aspirin treated group. Biochemical analysis showed a significant increase in TAC and CAT activity while it showed significant decrease in the levels of TOS and MDA which indicate reduction in gastric damage.A. parviflora seed powder proved to be gastroprotective at 250, 500 and 750 mg/kg with gastric protection of 47.5, 58.1, and 73.5%, respectively. It also has potent antioxidant properties.

Key words: Antiulcer, ulcer score, gastric volume, gastric pH.