Pharmacological Evaluation of Bignonia gracilis Leaf Extract for Anti-Ulcer Activity in an Ethanol-Induced Ulcer Model

Background: Peptic ulcer disease remains a major global health concern, with modern lifestyles and widespread NSAID use contributing to its continued prevalence. Medicinal plants have garnered increasing attention as alternative therapeutic approaches due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the anti-ulcer activity of Bignonia gracilis leaf extract using an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in Wistar albino rats. Methods: Leaves of Bignonia gracilis were collected, authenticated, dried, and extracted using ethanol via Soxhlet extraction. Phytochemical screening was performed using standard qualitative tests. Acute oral toxicity was assessed following OECD Guideline 423. Anti-ulcer activity was evaluated in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer model in Wistar rats (n=6 per group) at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, with Omeprazole (20 mg/kg) as standard. Ulcer index, gastric secretion parameters, biochemical markers (MDA, SOD, CAT, GSH, mucin, total protein), and histopathological examination were assessed. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, glycosides, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. The extract was found safe up to 2000 mg/kg with no mortality or toxicity signs. The extract significantly (p<0.01) reduced ulcer index from 8.50 ± 0.35 (ulcer control) to 4.30 ± 0.28 (200 mg/kg) and 2.90 ± 0.22 (400 mg/kg), with percentage protection of 49.41% and 65.88%, respectively. Biochemical analysis showed significant reduction in MDA levels and restoration of SOD, CAT, and GSH antioxidant enzymes. Histopathological examination confirmed restoration of normal gastric mucosal architecture. Conclusion: Bignonia gracilis leaf extract demonstrated significant dose-dependent anti-ulcer and gastroprotective activity, likely attributed to its antioxidant and cytoprotective phytoconstituents. The findings suggest its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for gastric ulcer management.