The Therapeutic Effect of Nigella sativa Seed on Indomethacin-induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

Abstract

Background: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, gastric complications remain a major problem limiting their clinical usage. This study was carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Nigella sativa seed (N. sativa seed) hydroalcoholic extract on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats and its possible mechanism. Methods: This study was carried out on forty-eight male Wistar rats. Gastric ulcer was induced by indomethacin (35 mg/kg). N. sativa seed extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and ranitidine (50 mg/kg) was administered orally for five days after ulcer induction. Ulcer index, gastric acid secretion, gastric mucus content, total thiol, malondialdehyde (MDA), and total hexose, and protein content in gastric juice were determined. Results: The ulcer index in groups of N. sativa seed was significantly lower as compared to indomethacin group. N. sativa seed significantly decreased MDA and protein content, but increased total thiol, total hexose, and mucus content as compared to indomethacin group. N. sativa seed did not affect gastric acid secretion. Conclusion: These findings showed that the gastroprotective effect of N. sativa seed against indomethacin- induced ulcer was mainly exerted by antioxidant activity, stimulation of gastric mucus secretion and also increased total hexose in the gastric mucosa.