Aqueous Preparation of Zea mays L. (Poaceae) Starch Slurry Offer Some Protection Against Experimentally Induced ulcers

 

Isiogugu Ogechukwu Nnanyelugo*1, Akpandu-Okoro Rita Nnenne1, Ugwu Francisca Onyinyechi1, Ofokansi Martha Nneoma.1; Ogbue Cyril Onyeka2

1Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, 410001, Enugu State, Nigeria

2Department of Pharmacognosy and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria

 

Key words:

Zea mays, peptic ulcer, stress ulcer, ethanol, indomethacin, pylorus ligation

 

 

 

 

*Corresponding author:

ogechukwu.isiogugu@unn.edu.ng; +2347064858737

 

 

 

 

Page No.: 51-59
Volume: 1, Issue 1, 2020
Trends in Natural Products Research
Copy Right: NAPREG

Abstract

Present modality for the management of peptic ulcer disease with synthetic agents is known to be associated with serious side effects hence the need to look for natural agents with better safety and efficacy profile. Zea mays starch (prepared as a slurry) has been used in parts of Nigeria to ameliorate ulcer symptoms. This work aimed to evaluate the antiulcer properties of aqueous preparation of Z. mays starch (ZM) slurry in rodents using ethanol-induced ulcer (EIU), water immersion restraint stress-induced ulcer (WIRSIU), indomethacin-induced ulcer (IIU) and pylorus ligation-induced ulcer (PLIU) models. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity study of the extract were performed. The ZM up to 5000 mg/kg administered orally showed no toxicity or sign of intoxication after 24 hr observation period. The extract gave positive reactions for flavonoids, tannins, saponins, reducing sugars and carbohydrates. The slurry exhibited a non-dose dependent ulcer protection against EIU. The slurry demonstrated a significant and dose dependent ulcer protection in WIRSIU with best activity recorded at 1000 mg/kg (88.03 %). It also elicited a significant (p < 0.05) attenuation of ulcer development in IUU. In PLIU, it significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the gastric volume. There was a non-dose dependent decrease in total acidity and a significant (p < 0.001) and dose dependent increase in ulcer protection. The results demonstrated that the aqueous preparation of Z. mays starch (ZM) slurry possesses anti-ulcer properties.