Synergistic Gastroprotective, Hepatoprotective, And Antioxidant Activities Of Ethanolic Leaf Extracts Of Achyranthes Aspera And Euphorbia Hirta: A Comprehensive Phytochemical And Pharmacological Study

Abstract

This study investigates the synergistic gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, and antioxidant activities of ethanolic leaf extracts of Achyranthes aspera (AAEE) and Euphorbia hirta (EHEE), along with their combination, using in vitro and in vivo models. The objectives included preparation and standardization of plant material, phytochemical screening via Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assays, and in vivo evaluation of gastroprotective and hepatoprotective effects. Standardization parameters confirmed consistent extract quality, with yields of 4.5–4.66%, ash values of 27.6–31.5%, and moisture content of 0.56–0.71%. FTIR analysis identified flavonoids, phenolic compounds, saponins, and terpenoids, with characteristic peaks at 3410–3350 cm⁻¹ (O-H), 1720–1715 cm⁻¹ (C=O), and 1610–1585 cm⁻¹ (C=C). In vitro antioxidant assays (DPPH and H₂O₂ scavenging) demonstrated potent activity, with AAEE showing an IC50 of 119.38 µg/mL (DPPH) compared to ascorbic acid (154.33 µg/mL). In vivo studies using ethanol-induced ulcer and paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity models in rats revealed significant gastroprotective (protection index: 64.10% for AAEE+EHEE) and hepatoprotective effects, with the combination outperforming individual extracts. Histopathological analysis supported these findings, showing reduced necrosis and inflammation. The synergistic effects suggest that polyherbal formulations could enhance therapeutic efficacy, validating the ethnomedicinal uses of these plants and providing a foundation for developing natural remedies for oxidative stress-related disorders.