Chidinma L. Onuebunwa

This study is designed to investigate the cytoprotective effect of the methanolic extract of Musa paradisiaca in combination with catecholamines on indomethacin-induced peptic ulcer. The pylorus ligation technique was used for cytoprotective and Anti-secretory action of the extract. Ulcerated control received distilled water, Group II - IV received 0.5 ml of the plant extract orally for 14 days. The rats were fasted for 48 hours after the end of the second week. 50mg/kg of adrenalin (Epinephrine) was administered to members of group II and 50mg/kg of dopamine was administered to members of group III. One hour later the animals were sacrificed, the stomachs were removed by laparastomy. The gastric lesions in the glandular region were assessed and measured to determine the ulcer index. Pylorus ligation in the group II, III and IV showed significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the ulcer index compared to group I. The ulcer index of Group I was 14.8±3.5 compared to Group II (8.2±1.4), Group III (4.8±1.7), and Group IV (3.0±1.1). The extract also showed 67.57% ulcer protection index against indomethacin. Results of the anti-secretory activity of the extract showed that treatment with M. paradisiaca resulted in a significant increase in gastric fluid after histamine stimulation when compared with the negative control as well as protect rats from ulceration after histamine administration. The results suggested that the methanolic extract of Musa paradisiaca possess cytoprotective effect against indomethacin-induced ulceration. This effect was however decreased when the extract is administered with catecholamines.