The Effects Of Capsicum Annuum And Capsicum Frutescens-Induced Gastric Acid Secretion In The Rat Is By H2 Receptor Stimulation.

Abstract

Background:Peppers, containing Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens are frequently consumed as spice in food. It is also known that the capsaicin content of peppers is a cause of hyper acidity.

Aims:This study was undertaken to assess the mechanism of action of the extracts of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens on gastric acid secretion.

Method: Aqueous extracts of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens prepared by simple maceration were administered to urethane anaesthetized rats, and gastric acid secretion assessed using the continuous perfusion method. The effects of ranitidine on Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens-induced gastric acid secretion in albino rats of both sexes were also investigated.

Results: Aqueous extracts of Capsicum annuum or Capsicum frutescens induced gastric acid secretion dose-dependently. Maximum acid output induced by either crude extract was significantly (p 0<0001) reduced by ranitidine (67.57% and 52.45% respectively).

Conclusion: It is suggested that the effects of Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens on gastric acid secretion being inhibited by a H2- antagonist, ranitidine,

might in part be due to H2-receptor stimulation.


Keywords: Capsicum annuum, Capsicum frutescens, gastric acid, secretion, ranitidine.

Highland Medical Research Journal Vol. 5 (2) 2007 pp. 38-41