ANTIULCER AND ANTI-INFLAMMATORY ACTIVITY OF CAJANUS CAJAN LINN.

Abstract

Cajanus cajan Linn. is commonly used in Indian folk medicine to treat various ulcers and inflammatory conditions. Different extracts of the leaves was prepared with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol and water. Each type of Extract of the leaves of Cajanus cajan Linn. was investigated for possible anti gastric ulcer properties and anti-inflammatory action. These extracts were effective in protecting rats from developing gastric ulcers induced by three acute models: HCl/ethanol induced ulcer, immersion-restraint stress ulcer and drug induced ulcer. Omeprazole (20 mg/kg p.o.) used as standard in HCl/ethanol, Ranitidine used as standard (50 mg/kg p.o.) in immersion-restraint stress and in drug induced ulcer. There was significant reduction in ulcer index as compared to control. The p value was found to be (p < 0.0001). These results suggest that the Cajanus cajan Linn. leaves shows the antiulcer activity. Anti- inflammatory effect studied by two models: Cotton pellet granuloma and carrageenan induced paw edema. Indomethacin (20 mg/kg p.o.) used as standard in carrageenan induced paw edema and Diclofanec sodium (4 mg/kg i.p.) used as standard in cotton pellet granuloma. P value was (P < 0.0001). The significant reduction in inflammation was calculated as compared to control.