Optimization of Extraction Process and Anti-Hemorrhoidal Activity of Blumea lacera (Burm.f.) DC. Leaves in Croton Oil-induced Hemorrhoid Model

Background and Objectives Blumea lacera (Burm.f.) DC. (Family—Asteraceae) is widely used for treating hemorrhoids by several ethnomedicinal practitioners and tribes in India. Thus, the main objective of the present investigation was to evaluate the potential of B. lacera leaf extract in the treatment of hemorrhoids using a croton oil-induced hemorrhoid rat model. Materials and Methods Ethanol extract of B. lacera (EBL) leaves was prepared using Soxhlet extraction, optimized using Box–Behnken design (BBD), and quantified using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Furthermore, the vasoactive ions were estimated using ion-exchange chromatography. Hemorrhoids were induced in the recto-anal portion of experimental rats, followed by treatment with EBL (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg; par oral (p.o.)) and Pilex granules as a standard anti-hemorrhoid drug for 7 days. The anti-hemorrhoid potential was evaluated on the eighth day by assessing the severity of hemorrhoids, biochemical parameters, and histology of recto-anal tissue. Results Upon treatment with EBL and Pilex, there was a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in the inflammatory severity index, concentration of Evans blue dye, recto-anal coefficient (RAC), elevated cytokines level, and restoration of altered antioxidant status. Furthermore, the histopathological results revealed a marked reduction in the inflammatory zones along with minimally dilated blood vessels. Conclusion The present study confirmed the traditional claims of the plant B. lacera in the treatment of hemorrhoids, which may be attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential in EBL, where quercetin could be considered the main contributor.