WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

Adeoye Ayodeji David, Okwule Patrick Godwin, Adeoye Bayo Olufunsho, Adelakin Iranlola Adeol, Oyebanjo Oyetola Tolulope, Madike Daniel, Adebayo Oluwadunsin Iyanuoluwa*

ABSTRACT

Gastric ulcers are a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder characterized by erosions in the stomach lining, affecting a significant global population. The rise in gastric ulcer disease incidence underscores the need for effective interventions. Gastric ulcers often result from a disruption in the delicate balance between aggressive and defensive factors affecting the stomach mucosa. Various factors, including excessive gastric acid secretion and the influence of external agents like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), contribute to ulceration. This study explores the potential therapeutic effects of Beta Vulgaris leaf extract on drug-induced gastric ulceration, focusing on its cytoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups. Group 1 (normal control) received distilled water, while Group 2 (ulcerated control) received indomethacin alone. Groups 3, 4, and 5 received graded doses of 200 mg/kg body weight of Beta Vulgaris leaf extract to assess potential negative or toxicological effects. Group 6 received pretreatment with cimetidine (20 mg/kg body weight) before indomethacin administration. Treatments, including reference drug and extract administrations, spanned 14 days prior to indomethacin dosing. All treatments were administered orally via an intubator, with ad libitum access to food (Pallets) and water throughout the study. Photomicrographs demonstrated that Beta Vulgaris leaf extract prevented ulceration in the stomach. Ulcer scores revealed a significant reduction in ulcer formation, particularly with the highest dose of Beta Vulgaris extract, compared to indomethacin-induced ulcers. Cimetidine also significantly inhibited ulcer formation. Beta Vulgaris leaf extract demonstrated substantial antiulcer activity, mucoprotection, and a reduction in gastric acid secretion, comparable to reference drugs. Its mechanism of action likely involves cytoprotective, antioxidant, immunoregulatory, and antisecretory properties. These findings suggest Beta Vulgaris as a potential preventive or complementary treatment for peptic ulcers.

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