Phytochemical Profiling and Anti-Colitis Potential of Helianthus annuus L. Seed Extract in Acetic Acid Induced Ulcerative Colitis in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Introduction:

The current study was conducted to investigate the phytochemical composition and therapeutic potential of Helianthus annuus L. (sunflower) seed extract against ulcerative colitis (UC) in Wistar rats. UC, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, was induced in rats to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and mucosal protective effects of the seed extract. Helianthus annuus L., commonly known as sunflower and belonging to the family Asteraceae, is one of the foremost sources of high-quality edible oil and is recognized for its substantial nutritional, culinary, and medicinal properties. In the in vivo analysis, ulcerative colitis was induced in Wistar rats using 7% acetic acid.

Objectives:

To evaluate the phytochemical constituents and assess the therapeutic efficacy of Helianthus annuus L. seed extract in acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in Wistar rats.

Methods:

Ulcerative colitis (UC) was induced in Wistar rats using 7% acetic acid. The treatment groups received 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight of the seed extract, respectively, while a standard group received sulfasalazine. Phytochemical analysis was performed to identify bioactive constituents. Disease severity was evaluated through macroscopic scoring, colon weight/length ratio, stool consistency, and gastrointestinal pH. Nitric oxide (NO) and biochemical parameters including nuclear factor Kappa B (NF-κB) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were measured. Histopathological examination of colon tissue was conducted to assess structural alterations.

Results:

Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of biologically active compounds including saponins, tannins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic compounds, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The results demonstrated that the sunflower seed extract reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and mucosal damage in a dose-dependent manner. The higher dose (400 mg/kg BW) exhibited therapeutic outcomes comparable to the standard drug. Notably, NO, NF-κB, and TNF-α levels were markedly reduced in treated groups, and histological evaluation showed improved mucosal integrity.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that Helianthus annuus seed extract holds promise as a natural therapeutic agent for managing ulcerative colitis (UC), possibly through its phytochemical constituents and anti-inflammatory action.