The Journal of Phytopharmacology 2026; 15(3):147-155 DOI:10.31254/phyto.2026.15306

Research Article

Evaluation of anti-haemorrhoidal activity of chitosan-based hydrogel incorporated with root extract of Solanum xanthocarpum plant

Urjita Sheth¹ , Sonali Borad² , Saloni Patil² , Divya Patel² , Bhavin Vyas³

Urjita Sheth,Sonali Borad,Saloni Patil,Divya Patel,Bhavin Vyas

1. Department of Biotechnology, School of Science and Technology, Vanita Vishram Women’s University, Surat-395001, Gujarat, India
2. C. G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, Uka Tarsadia University, Bardoli, Surat-394350, Gujarat, India
3. Maliba Pharmacy College, Uka Tarsadia University, Bardoli, Surat-394350, Gujarat, India

*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.

Received: 11th February, 2026 / Accepted: 2nd May, 2026 / Published : 6th July, 2026

Abstract

Background: Haemorrhoids, a prevalent anorectal condition involves inflammation, vascular congestion and oxidative stress. It needs safer treatment alternative due to the limitations of existing conventional treatments. Solanum xanthocarpum shows natural healing potential and chitosan hydrogels improve delivery, offering a safer, effective and patient-friendly approach for managing haemorrhoids. Objective: The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-haemorrhoidal activity of chitosan-based hydrogel containing root extracts of S. xanthocarpum using a croton oil induced haemorrhoid model in mice. Methods: Aqueous and methanolic root extracts of S. xanthocarpum were Soxhlet-prepared and formulated in chitosan hydrogel. Haemorrhoids were induced in Swiss mice using croton oil. Anti haemorrhoidal activity was assessed by determining Evans blue exudation, recto anal coefficient (RAC), tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF α) levels, malondialdehyde (MDA) generation and histopathology analysis of tissue. Results: Croton oil induced marked haemorrhoidal inflammation with elevated RAC, Evans blue leakage, TNF-α and MDA. Treatment with both aqueous and methanolic extracts significantly reduced these parameters compared with the negative control group. Chitosan based gel formulations showed greater therapeutic effects than extracts alone. Histopathology confirmed reduced inflammatory infiltration, improved vascular integrity and restoration of mucosal architecture in treated groups. Conclusion: Chitosan hydrogel containing S. xanthocarpum root extract possesses significant anti-inflammatory and anti-haemorrhoidal activity. Thus, the formulated hydrogel represents a promising natural therapeutic approach for the management of haemorrhoids.