*Corresponding Author: Hemant Badwaik, Shri Shankaracharya Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Shri Shankaracharya Professional University, Junwani, Bhilai - 490020, Chhattisgarh, India. Email: hemantrbadwaik@gmail.com
The present study investigates the phytochemical composition and antiulcer potential of Manilkara zapota (sapodilla) leaf extract (EEMZ) as a natural gastroprotective agent. Ethanolic extraction followed by qualitative and quantitative analyses revealed high phenolic (86.47 ± 2.16 mg GAE/g) and flavonoid (42.31 ± 1.82 mg QE/g) content. FTIR, XRD, and DSC confirmed the presence of polyphenolic and glycosidic compounds with amorphous, thermally stable characteristics. EEMZ exhibited potent antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 62.4 µg/mL; FRAP = 310.6 µmol Fe²⁺ eq/g). In vivo, EEMZ significantly reduced ulcer index and total acidity while increasing gastric pH in ethanol-induced ulcerated rats, with the 400 mg/kg dose comparable to omeprazole. Histopathological and biochemical evaluations showed mucosal regeneration, decreased lipid peroxidation, and restoration of GSH, SOD, and CAT levels. These findings demonstrate that M. zapota leaf extract possesses strong antioxidant and gastroprotective properties, likely mediated by polyphenolic constituents, supporting its potential development as a safe, plant-derived antiulcer therapeutic.
Keywords: Manilkara zapota leaf extract, gastroprotective activity, antioxidant, phenolic compounds, sustained-release formulation, natural excipient, ulcer prevention, ethanolic extract, phytochemical analysis, oxidative stress.
How to cite this article: Turkane DR, Badwaik H. Phytochemical profiling and antiulcer potential of Manilkara zapota leaf extract: in vitro and in vivo evaluation toward gastroprotective drug development. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(6s): 180-188; DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.6s.23
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None