Abstract
The ethanolic extract of dried fruits of Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (Euphorbiaceae) was tested for its gastroprotective effects in patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Thirty patients were selected for the study and divided into three groups consisting of ten subjects each. Patients were given the ethanolic extract of P. emblica (Pe.Et), lactose (placebo) and omeprazole for 14days respectively.The test group received a Pe.Et dose of 500mg/day in three divided doses, i.e., each capsule contained 166.6mg PeEt with lactose added making 500mg per capsule. The dose of ethanolic extract of P. emblica was calculated on the basis of the crude powder of P. emblica used by traditional healers. Capsules of the same colour but filled with 500mg lactose were given thrice a day to the patients of the negative (placebo) control group. Omeprazole at the recommended dose of (40mg/day) was given to the patients of the positive control group. A questionnaire and endoscopic based procedures were adopted for investigation. The gastroprotective effects of P. emblica were compared with both the placebo and the omeprazole-treated group.The results of the study showed that Pe.Et alleviated pain, vomiting, sleep disturbances and other associated problems. Gastroscopic evaluations also showed the healing of damaged mucosa. Taken together these findings indicate that the ethanolic extract of P. emblica fruits has gastroprotective effects in humans and justifies its traditional use.