Effect of Moringa oleifera extract on experimental reflux oesophagitis in rats

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Family: Moringaceae) is commonly known as drumstick tree or horseradish tree. The leaves are highly nutritious, being a significant source of beta carotene, Vitamin C, protein and antioxidants [1]. In the present study, protective effect of hydroalcholic extract of the leaves of M. oleifera on experimental reflux oesophagitis in rats was investigated. Rats received M. oleifera extract (200, 400mg/kg), omeprazole (30mg/kg) given at 1h prior to surgery [2]. M. oleifera extract at doses 200, 400mg/kg significantly inhibited the oesophagitis index (P<0.001) as compare to control. Further, acid and pepsin out put of gastric contents were significantly decreased in treated groups. M. oleifera extract (400mg/kg) significantly inhibited the lipid peroxidation (from 0.58±0.03 to 0.38±0.02 nmol of malonyldialdehyde (MDA)/mg protein) (P<0.001) and increased in levels of catalase to 25.4±2.8 units of catalase activity/mg protein and superoxide dismutase (SOD) to 71.2±5.8 units/mg protein (P<0.001). M. oleifera extract (200mg/kg) and omperazole also showed significant inhibition in lipid peroxidation (P<0.05) and enhanced the activities of catalase (P<0.01) and SOD activity. Further, it altered the elevated levels of sialic acid and hexose contents in oesophageal tissue. Indeed, M. oleifera significantly decreased the elevated plasma histamine content (P<0.05). The results suggested that antioxidants potential of M. oleifera could attenuate the severity of reflux oesophagitis and prevent the oesophageal mucosal damage.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, Reflux Oesophagitis, Antioxidant

References: 1. Verma A R (2009) Food Chem Toxicol 47: 2196–2201

2. Rao ChV, Vijayakumar M (2008) Eur J Pharmacol 589: 233–238