Context: Cichorium intybus L. ( Asteraceae ) roots have been extensively used in Ayurveda medicine. It is variously used as a treatment for gallstones, gastro-enteritis, sinus problems, diabetes and constipation. Objective: To investigate the antiulcer and antioxidant activity of hydro alcoholic extract of roots of Cichorium intybus Linn (HACI). Methods: Antiulcer effect of HACI was evaluated in rats by the oral administration of ethanol 99.5% (dose 1ml/200gm b.w.) and pylorus ligation method. HACI was administered at the dose of (300mg/kg and 500mg/kg. p.o.) Antiulcer activity was assessed by determining and comparing ulcer index, total acidity, free acidity, gastric volume and pH, in test drug group with that of ulcer control group. Ranitidine was used as a standard (50mg/kg/p.o.). Antioxidant activity of HACI has been assayed by using ABTS radical cation decolorization assay. Results: Maximum ulcer reduction was observed at a dose of 500mg/kg p.o. of HACI, in ethanol and pylorus ligation induced model, producing a protection index of 46.66% and 43.93% respectively, where as Ranitidine produced greater protection index of 59.99% and 68.29% respectively. A significant reduction in volume of gastric juice and acid output was also observed in ulcer induced animals treated with HACI when compared with ulcer control group. Simultaneously, pH of the gastric fluid was increased significantly. The result of study indicates that the antioxidant properties of HACI may contribute to gastro protective activity probably due to its free radical scavenging activity. Conclusions: These results suggest that HACI root extract possess antiulcer activity.
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