Abstract
Gastric ulcers are a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by mucosal damage in the stomach lining, often caused by factors such as Helicobacter pylori infection, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) use, and excessive alcohol consumption. Current management strategies primarily involve the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole to reduce gastric acid secretion and promote ulcer healing. However, these drugs have limitations, including side effects and the potential for drug resistance. Therefore, it is necessary to keep exploring other source of treatment. The plant world has been known to produce various medicinal phytochemical constituents, and in this research the plant of study are Ficus exasperata and Sida acuta, and their antiulcer effects. This study aimed to evaluate the potential curative effects of Ficus exasperata and Sida acuta extracts in ethanol-induced ulceration in Wistar rats, with the objective of exploring alternative and complementary treatments for gastric ulcers.
Ethanol (5ml/kg) was used to induce ulceration in Wistar rats, following which different doses of Ficus exasperata (100mg/kg, 200mg/kg, and 400mg/kg) and Sida acuta extracts were administered orally. Omeprazole served as the standard reference. After treatment, the rats were sacrificed, and their stomachs were isolated and examined under a microscope to assess mucosal effects.
Lower doses 200 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg respectively of both Ficus exasperata and Sida acuta extracts exhibited significant antiulcer activity compared to higher doses and the standard reference drug, omeprazole.
The findings of this study suggest the potential of Ficus exasperata and Sida acuta extracts as alternative treatments for gastric ulcers. Further research is warranted to elucidate their mechanisms of action and explore their clinical applications in ulcer management, potentially offering safer and more effective therapeutic options for patients.
