EVALUATION OF THE IN VITRO ANTIHYPERTENSIVE ACTIVITY OF METHANOL FRACTIONS OF PYRUS COMMUNIS

Hypertension remains a major global health challenge and a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Conventional antihypertensive drugs, although effective, are often associated with side effects and limited patient compliance, thereby necessitating the search for safer alternatives. This study investigates the in vitro antihypertensive activity of methanol fractions of Pyrus communis through angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and arginase inhibition assays. Fresh Pyrus communis leaves were extracted with methanol, and successive fractionation using n-hexane, ethyl acetate, and butanol was performed. The fractions were assessed for their inhibitory effects on ACE and arginase activities, with IC₅₀ values determined to compare potencies. Results showed that n-Butanol fraction of aqueous extract showed a dose-dependent inhibition in ACE activity whereas n-Hexane and ethyl acetate showed otherwise, with the butanol fraction displaying the most potent effect in both assays, as indicated by its lowest IC₅₀ values. These findings suggest that Pyrus communis contains bioactive compounds capable of modulating enzymatic pathways linked to hypertension, thus supporting its traditional use in cardiovascular health. The study provides a basis for further phytochemical and in vivo investigations aimed at developing plant-derived antihypertensive agents.