The present study was undertaken to determine the antiulcer activity of the ethanol extract from the leaves of Pistia stratiotes. The preliminary phytochemical investigation showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, gums and phytosteroids. The pharmacological and acute toxicity studies of ethanol extract was performed according to OECD-423 guidelines (Acute toxic class method). No mortality or toxicity was observed (3 days) up to 2000mg/kg of body weight. Flavonoids, tannins and triterpenes are among the cytoprotective active materials for which antiulcerogenic efficacy has been extensively confirmed. It is suggested that these compounds will be able to stimulate mucus, bicarbonate and prostaglandin secretion, and counteract with the deteriorating effects of reactive oxidants in gastrointestinal lumen. Tannins may prevent ulcer development due to their protein precipitating and vasoconstriction effects. Their astringent action can help precipitating micro proteins on the ulcer site, thereby forming an impervious layer over the lining that hinders gut secretions and protects the underlying mucosa from toxins and other irritants.
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