Abstract

ANTI-HEMORRHOIDAL ACTIVITY OF HYDROETHANOLIC EXTRACT OF NEPHROLEPIS BISERRATA WITH PHYTOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION, ANTIOXIDANT POTENTIAL AND IN VIVO EVALUATION IN A RAT MODEL

Louis Fagbohoun, Amoussatou Sakirigui*, Arlette Raymonde Adjatin, Franck Yovo, Kossivi Issa Saloufou, Eric Agbodjento

ABSTRACT

Hemorrhoids are a common disorder characterized by inflammation and alteration of anorectal tissues, leading to pain and discomfort. Natural plant-based treatments are being explored for their potential safety and efficacy. In this context, the present study aimed to evaluate the anti-hemorrhoidal potential of the hydroethanolic extract of Nephrolepis biserrata by correlating its phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and biological effects in rats. The methodology involved preparing aqueous-ethanolic extracts of N. biserrata, performing phytochemical screening, and administering two doses (250 and 500 mg/kg) to rats following experimental induction of hemorrhoids. Studied parameters included plasma protein levels, liver enzymes (ALT, AST), recto-anal coefficient, and antioxidant activity (DPPH assay). Results showed that N. biserrata is rich in flavonoids (38.5 mg QE/g), tannins, alkaloids, and total polyphenols (75 mg GAE/g), with high antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 9.13 × 10⁻³ mg/mL). Treatment with 250 mg/kg normalized plasma protein levels (65.4 mg/dL), significantly reduced the recto-anal coefficient (0.00156), and decreased ALT and AST to 88.7 and 172.19 U/L, respectively, sometimes surpassing the efficacy of Daflon. The 500 mg/kg extract was also effective but slightly less so for certain parameters, suggesting an optimal dose at 250 mg/kg. These effects are likely related to the synergistic action of the chemical compound families present in the plant. In conclusion, Nephrolepis biserrata appears to be a promising candidate for hemorrhoid treatment, combining anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities, with an identified optimal dose of 250 mg/kg. high antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 9.13 × 10⁻³ mg/mL). Treatment with 250 mg/kg normalized plasma protein levels (65.4 mg/dL), significantly reduced the recto-anal coefficient (0.00156), and decreased ALT and AST to 88.7 and 172.19 U/L, respectively, sometimes surpassing the efficacy of Daflon. The 500 mg/kg extract was also effective but slightly less so for certain parameters, suggesting an optimal dose at 250 mg/kg. These effects are likely related to the synergistic action of the chemical compound families present in the plant. In conclusion, Nephrolepis biserrata appears to be a promising candidate for hemorrhoid treatment, combining anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities, with an identified optimal dose of 250 mg/kg.

Keywords: Anti-hemorrhoidal potential, hydroethanolic extract, Nephrolepis biserrata, phytochemical screening, antioxidant activity.