COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ASH CONTENT IN TWO ANTI - ULCER ETHNOMEDICINAL PLANTS: MORINGA OLEIFERA LAM. AND CARICA PAPAYA L. FROM RANCHI, JHARKHAND

*Asra Shaheen and Dr. Arun Kuma

Peptic ulcer is a prevalent gastrointestinal condition characterized by the erosion of the stomach or duodenal lining, often caused by excessive gastric acid secretion. Conventional synthetic treatments for ulcers are not always effective, costly, and come with several side effects. In this context, herbal medicines present a promising alternative. These plants contain a variety of bioactive compounds that enhance their therapeutic potential. This study is based on extensive field surveys conducted between 2021 and 2023. Ethnomedicinal knowledge was documented through interviews with local healers, vaidyas, tribal communities, and other knowledgeable individuals.  Medicinal plants including Carica papaya L. and Moringa oleifera Lam. were selected for ash value determination. Among these two, Carica papaya L. showed the highest ash value i.e (15.85% ± 0.63) and Moringa oleifera Lam. the lowest i.e (12.0% ± 0.68). These findings contribute to understanding the potential of these plants as viable sources for the treatment of ulcers.