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Abstract

Introduction: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic, autoimmune, and inflammatory disorder which affects the lining of the colon and the rectum. It involves inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, nitrogen and oxygen-derived free radicals exerting oxidative stress, deranged colonic milieu, and increase in intestinal permeability. Ricinus communis roots are used traditionally in diseases of liver and rectum, in gastropathy such as constipation, inflammation, fever, colic and in colon cancer. Several reports exhibiting analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity of R. communis root extract (RCRE) are available. Hence, this study was undertaken with the objective to evaluate the effectiveness of RCRE in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) induced UC in rats. Materials and Methods: A total of 30 Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n = 6). 5-Aminosalicylic acid was used as a standard drug, and RCRE was administered at a dose of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg p.o. for 14 days. UC was induced by replacing drinking water with 4% DSS solution for the past 7 days. Results: Severity of colitis induced was assessed by observing macroscopic and microscopic characteristics and changes in the level of oxidative stress parameters. All parameters were altered in model control rats, while pretreatment with RCRE preserved normal colonic architecture, improved macroscopic and microscopic scores and altered oxidative stress biomarkers in the colon. Conclusion: Results showed the good effectiveness of RCRE against DSS-induced UC possibly by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.