Evaluation of anti-inflammatory activity of Oxalis corniculata in experimentally induced inflammatory bowel disease in rats.

ABSTRACT

Background: Oxalis corniculata is traditionally well-known for its versatile uses. The present study was carried out to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of the ethanolic extract of O. corniculata (EEOC) leaves in experimentally induced inflammatory bowel disease in rats. Methods: Rats were treated with the extract for 7 days following which acetic acid was used to induce colitis. Animals were euthanized, 24 hrs after induction of colitis and colon was removed and assessed for macroscopic injury, as well as also processed for histopathological examination. Sulfasalazine 360 mg/kg was used as the standard drug. The extract was used in 200 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg doses. Results: At all the three doses, the EEOC showed significant (p<0.01) antiinflammatory activity in experimental models. Conclusion: Results obtained in this study substantiate the anti-inflammatory effect of EEOC leaves.