Protective effect of fenugreek seeds (Trigonella foenum graecum) extract against experimental gastric ulcer in rats

Abstract

Trigonella foenum graecum, (Fenugreek) is used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antidiabetic properties. The present study was designed to investigate the protective effects of fenugreek seed extract on experimentally induced gastric mucosal ulcer in rats. In this study, 24 male rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. Control group underwent gastric ulcer (by ligating the pylorus). Treatment group was given fenugreek seeds extract via oral gavage for 1 week before inducing gastric ulcer. Groups sham I and II were given normal saline and extract orally, respectively, without inducing gastric ulcer. After the experiment, the glandular stomach was removed and the tissues were processed for macroscopic and histopathologic examination. The results of present study showed that administration of fenugreek seeds extract significantly decreased erosion and ulcer in the treatment group compared to the control group. Significant increases in the number of inflammatory cells were observed in the control group while no noticeable lesions were visible in the gastric mucosa of treatment group. Normal gastric mucosa was observed in the groups sham I and II. According to the results of the current study, fenugreek seeds extract oral usage can protect the gastric mucosa from injury.