Therapeutic potential of Capparis spinosa in experimental model of acute acetic acid-induced colitis: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects

Introduction: This study examined the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Capparis spinosa L. (caper) in order to determine its medicinal potential in the treatment of acute colitis. Method: Sixty male rats were divided into six groups. After the experimental period, distal colonic extension was collected for determination of colonic damage, oxidative stress markers, along with antioxidant markers. The impact of altered levels of inflammatory cytokines in colon tissues on the underlying mechanisms examined. Results: The results showed that administering different doses of caper led to significant decreases in TNF-alpha and IL-6 levels when compared to the control colitis group (p < 0.001). Caper treatment effectively lowered elevated oxidative stress factors (MDA, NO, and MPO) compared to the control colitis group (p < 0.001). Caper treatment resulted in a significant increase in antioxidant factors (CAT, SOD, and GSH) compared with the control colitis group (p < 0.001). Significant improvements in tissue repair were observed in caper-treated groups compared to positives and control colitis (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study highlights caper may be useful in the treatment of acute colitis due to its ameliorative effects on inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue repair.