Abstract

Background:
Hemorrhoids are a pathological condition characterized by abnormal dilation of the blood vessels and swelling in the rectoanal region, often accompanied by inflammation. The ethanolic extract of purple leaf (Graptophyllum pictum) has demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory properties, which are attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and saponins.

Aim:
This research aims to assess the potential of topically applied and orally administered purple leaf extract in regulating inflammation in the rectoanal tissue of hemorrhoid-induced rats using 10% Croton oil.

Methods:
Following a 3-day induction period with 10% Croton oil, the rats were subjected to specific therapeutic regimens for 7 days. Subsequently, the rectoanal tissue was isolated and divided for histopathological analysis and assessment of immunological parameters. TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-β1 cytokine levels were quantified using ELISA, while IL-10 mRNA expression was determined using qRT-PCR. The histopathological observation of the rectoanal and calculation of the rectoanal coefficient were conducted.

Results:
The application of 10% Croton oil induced a significant elevation of TGF-β1 and TNF-α, but not IL-6 in the negative control group compared to the normal and treated group. The combined topical and oral administration of purple leaf extract reduced TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-β1 cytokines, and significantly elevated IL-10 mRNA expression in the rectoanal tissue. However, purple leaf extract did not appear to reduce the rectoanal coefficient.

Conclusion:
The presence of diverse active compounds in purple leaf extract, notably flavonoids, is thought to modulate tissue inflammation and facilitate tissue repair.

Key words: Purple Leaf; Inflammation; Flavonoid; Hemorrhoids.