Combination effect of phytoestrogen and phenol rich fractions of Ochna schweinfurthianaon gastric emptying in ovariectomized animal model of menopause.

Abstract

The present study investigated the combined effects of phytoestrogen and phenol-rich fractions of Ochna schweinfurthianaon gastric emptying in an ovariectomized animal model of menopause. Gastroparesis, a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying, is exacerbated by a decline in estrogen levels during menopause. The bark of Ochna schweinfurthianawas extracted and the extract was fractionated using various solvents. The total phenolic and phytoestrogen contents of the extract and fractions were quantified using the Folin Ciocalteu's assay and a genistein calibration curve, respectively. Menopause was induced in female Swiss albino rats by ovariectomy. The effects of additive (PE 132:PH 251 mg/kg) and synergistic (PE 160:PH 130 mg/kg) combinations of phytoestrogen and phenol-rich fractions on gastric emptying were evaluated using a phenol red meal. Metoclopramide and tramadol served as the positive and negative controls, respectively. The rate of gastric emptying, time required for 50% gastric emptying, and stomach contents were assessed. The results showed that the combination doses exhibited a prokinetic effect, increasing the gastric emptying rate and reducing the time required for 50% gastric emptying, similar to metoclopramide. The stimulatory effect of the phytoestrogen and phenol-rich fractions may be mediated through mechanisms other than the classical estrogen receptor signaling pathway. In conclusion, the combination of phytoestrogen and phenol-rich fractions from Ochna schweinfurthiana demonstrated a prokinetic effect on gastric emptying in an ovariectomized animal model of menopause, suggesting their potential as an alternative therapeutic strategy for gastroparesis in postmenopausal women.