Evaluation of Gastro-protective Activity of Red-cabbage Against Indomethacin Induced Ulcer in Rats

Background and objective: The red cabbage (Brassica oleracea Linn var. capitata) is a leafy green biennial plant that contains beta-carotene, vitamin C and fibre. It is used in cooking for its nutritional value and has known anti-inflammatory activity.This study compared the antiulcerogenic activity of Aqueous Extract of Brassica (AEB) oleracea var. capitata with Misoprostol.Materials and Method: Acute gastric ulcers were induced in albino rats by the oral administration of indomethacin. The gastroprotective potential of the AEB(250,500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight) was compared with Misoprostol (100?g/kg body weight). Results:A significant reduction in the mean number of lesions was observed in high dose AEB (0.83 +/- 0.75) compared with indomethacin (4.00 +/- 1.26). Mean number of lesions were similar in misoprostol groups (1.50 +/- 0.55) and medium dose AEB (1.77 +/- 0.41).No significant reduction in the mean number of lesions was observed in low dose AEB (3.00 +/- 0.63) compared with indomethacin (4.00 +/- 1.26). Inhibition percentage was maximum in high dose AEB (97.71%) and minimum in low dose AEB (28.08%).Conclusions: The AEB demonstrated good antiulcerogenic activities which justify the inclusion of this plant in the management of gastric disorders. Further experiments are underway to determine which anti-ulcer mechanisms involved in gastroprotection.