ABSTRACT
The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-ulcer activity of leaves of Bombax buonopozense P. Beauv. (Bombacaceae) in rats. Fresh dried leaves of B.buonopozense were extracted by cold maceration which yielded a mucilaginuous aqueous extract. Anti-ulcer effects of the aqueous extract at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were evaluated in rats using ethanol-induced ulcer model. Phytochemical analysis and lethality tests (LD50) were carried out using standard procedures. Results showed that the aqueous extract exhibited significant (P<0.05) and dose- dependent anti-ulcer activity in the model used. Percentage ulcer inhibitions of extract at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg for ethanol-induced ulcers were 39.76, 62.07 and 75.73% respectively. Ulcer protection in the model used by the extract is dose-dependent and the ulcer inhibitory effects of the extract are comparable to ranitidine. Oral LD50 value is 2828.42 mg/kg in mice. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, tannins, resins, balsams, carbohydrates, oligosaccharides, terpenes, reducing sugars and sterols. Therefore, results of our study suggest that the aqueous extract of B. buonopozense possesses anti-ulcer activity as claimed by its folkloric use.