THE EFFECT OF MUSA SAPIENTUM METHANOLIC FRUIT EXTRACT ON VOLUME OF GASTRIC JUICE AND PEPSIN ACTIVITY IN ASPIRIN INDUCED PEPTIC ULCERS IN ALBINO RATS

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of Musa sapientum methanolic fruit extract on volume of gastric juice and pepsin activity in aspirin induced peptic ulcer in albino rats. The extract was prepared by percolation method. Volume of gastric juice was estimated by the method of Deshpande SS et al (2003). Pepsin activity was studied with the methods of Debnath PK et al (1974) and Lowry OH et al (1951). Twenty four healthy albino rats of 100-200 gms were divided into 4 groups of six animals each. Group I or control (3% gum acacia, 5 ml/kg orally for 7 days). Group II or experimental control (aspirin 400 mg/kg orally single dose on the 7th day). Group III or MSE group (MSE 100 mg/kg orally for 7 days and aspirin 400 mg/kg orally single dose on the 7th day). Group IV or standard (ranitidine 150 mg/kg orally for 7 days and aspirin 400 mg/kg orally single dose on the 7th day). On 8^th day the stomachs of the sacrificed rats were removed. The volume of gastric juice and pepsin activity were studied. The volume of gastric juice and pepsin activity in group III and IV showed significant decrease in comparison to group II (p <0.01). Both Musa sapientum fruit extract and the ranitidine significantly (p <0.01) reduced volume of gastric juice and pepsin activity.