Gastroprotective activity of the stem bark of Amphipterygium adstringens in rats

The methanol extract of the stem bark of Amphipterygium adstringens (Julianiaceae) showed a dose‐dependent inhibitory effect on ethanol‐induced gastric ulcers in rats. Fractionation of this extract, guided by gastroprotective activity in rats, led to four active fractions rich in triterpenoid compounds. These fractions showed higher antiulcer activity than bismuth subsalicylate, used as a positive control. 3α‐Hydroxy‐ masticadienonic acid was isolated from the active fractions, however, this compound showed lower antiulcer activity than the positive control. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.