Anti-ulcerative effect and antioxidant effects of <i>Garcinia kola</i> Heckel (Clusiaceae) seed infusate

Abstract Objectives Peptic ulcer (PU) is a condition in which the gastric lining breaks down, causing bleeding. This study investigates the anti-ulcer effects of Garcinia kola seed infusate in a rat model. Material and methods Garcinia kola seeds were harvested, freeze-dried, ground, and stored in the freezer. Ulcers were induced using 96% ethanol. After 2 h of ulcer formation, they received; 20 mg/kg omeprazole for group 2 and 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg body weight Garcinia kola infusate by oral gavage for 3 days. On day 4 the stomachs were removed and analysed. Levels of oxidative stress markers were assessed. Results There was no evidence of acute or subacute toxicity of the infusate. Histological analysis of the stomach showed a healing effect of the infusate in both male and female rats. With regard to nitrite malonyl dialdehyde and reduced glutathione levels, there was no statistical difference between the rats of both sexes receiving Garcinia kola compared to the normal rats. The catalase level tended to be similar between treated and untreated females. The treated male with both Garcinia kola and omeprazole tended to normalize the level of catalase when compared to the normal animal. Conclusion The Garcinia kola seed infusate was found to possess anti-ulcer and antioxidant properties.