Evaluation of healing effects of Punica granatum peel on acetic acid induced colitis

The main objective is to evaluate the healing effects of 50% ethanolic extract of dried peel of Punica granatum (PGE) on acetic acid-induced colitis in rats. The method is Punica granatum peel extract was administered orally, once daily for 14 days in rats after the induction of colitis with 50% acetic acid and 100mg/kg dose of extract was found to have optimal effect against acetic-acid-induced colonic tissue damage and adhesions. Effectiveness of above dose of extract was then further studied for its effects on fecal output, presence of blood/mucous, changes in body weight, food and water intake done till 14th day of experiment while colonic tissue damage score, colonic weight and adhesions in the colonic tissue were studied on 15th day of experiment in 18 hours fasting rats. Antibacterial activity of the extract was also studied using in vitro procedures. In results Punica granatum peel extract (PGE) decreased colonic mucosal damage and inflammation, faecal output and increased body weight. Acute toxicity study indicated no mortality or other ANS or CNS related adverse effects even with 1000 mg/kg dose (10 times of effective dose) indicating its safety. The conclusion in this study is Pumica granatum peel extract (PGE) seemed to be safe and effective in colitis decreasing intestinal bacteria responsible for tissue damage and delayed healing.