The Gastro-Protective Effect of Ulmus Rubra, Piper Nigrum, and Brassica Oleracea in Ethanol-Induced Model of Gastric Ulcer

Abstract

Background: Gastric ulcer is a state that results from an imbalance between the erosive effect of acid and pepsin and the mucosal defense mechanism of the stomach; it is correlated with the lesions induced by ethanol. Methods: Forty-eight healthy albino rats weighing (150-200gm) were involved in the present study. The animals withholding food for 24hrs were allocated to six groups. Each group was given orally one of the following agents: distilled water for the control group, esomeprazole, aqueous extract of Ulmus rubra or Piper nigrum, or Brassica oleracea, then after one hour ethanol was given to all groups except group 1, which act as the control. Animals were sacrificed one hour later; the main parameters used in the present study were ulcer numbers and areas, preventive index, and changes in the trace elements (Zn and Cu) and serum electrolytes (Na+ and K+). Results: Ethanol was found to be highly ulcerogenic at high concentrations. The preventive index of these agents was 90%, 47.7%, and 91.8% for Ulmus rubra, Piper nigrum, and Brassica oleracea, respectively, in comparison with esomeprazole 94.7%. These agents also produced significant changes in trace elements levels of Zn and Cu but with no significant changes in electrolytes Na+ and K+. Conclusion: Both Ulmus rubra and Brassica oleracea extracts proved to have a potent gastroprotective effect against the ethanol-induced model of gastric ulcer and the possibility to be used in the management of peptic ulcer after assessment by clinical trials.