Abstract

70% ethanol extract of tubers of Momordica tuberosa (TMT) showed the presence of saponins and triterpenoids. GC-MS analysis of the extract showed presence of 42 compounds with Isopulegol, a monoterpene and a steroid, Androstane as main constituents. Many fatty acid derivatives like myristic acid, margaric acid, oleic acid etc. were also present. The extract was then tested for its antiulcer activity using three different experimental models of ulcers in rats viz., aspirin, ethanol and pyloric ligation induced ulcers in rats. The LD50 in rat was 200mg/kg. One fifth and one tenth of maximum dose i.e.40 and 20mg/kg were used to assess the antiulcer activity. In pylorus ligation model, parameters like ulcer index, volume of gastric juice, free acidity, total acidity and pH were measured. The extract showed antiulcer activity in a dose dependant manner. The 40mg/kg dose reduced ulcer to an extent of 95% in aspirin model and 82% in pyloric ligation method. The results suggest the anti-ulcer activity of tubers of Momordica tuberosa, probably due to its antioxidant nature.