Separate Evaluation of the Effects of Satureja hortensis L. and Froriepia subpinnata (Ledeb) Baill. Extracts on Gastric Ulcers in an Animal Model

Background and purpose: Gastric ulcers pose significant health challenges due to their high prevalence in various populations. Several factors contribute to the development of this condition, including Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, excessive use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), smoking, age, and gender. Given the high incidence of gastric ulcers induced by NSAID consumption, this study aims to investigate the protective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of Satureja hortensis and Froriepia subpinnata against indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in animal models. Materials and methods: n this experimental study, the leaves of Satureja hortensis and Froriepia subpinnata were dried and extracted using 60% ethanol. The toxicity of these plant extracts was assessed using Artemia salina. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts were measured spectrophotometrically. For the animal study, 48 Balb/c mice (n= 6 per group) were used. The treatment groups included omeprazole (30 mg/kg) and three different doses (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg) of Satureja hortensis and Froriepia subpinnata, administered separately by gavage. A negative control group received normal saline. One hour after treatment, indomethacin was administered via gavage to induce gastric ulcers. Four hours after indomethacin administration, the animals were anesthetized, and their stomachs were collected for histopathological evaluation. Results: Histopathological findings revealed that inflammation, gastric tissue bleeding, and congestion were reduced in the Satureja hortensis and Froriepia subpinnata groups. Moreover, the 1000 mg/kg dose of both extracts demonstrated greater efficacy compared to the lower doses tested. Conclusion: Extracts of Satureja hortensis and Froriepia subpinnata exhibit a protective effect against gastric ulcers induced by NSAIDs. This protective effect is likely attributed to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of phenols and flavonoids present in the extracts and appears to be dose-dependent.