Antiulcer activity of the stem bark aqueous extract of Croton oligandrum (Euphorbiaceae) against Ethanol/HCl-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats

Gastric ulcer is an alteration of the lining of the stomach with destruction of mucus-producing cells. Many factors are contributing to the development of peptic ulcer such as phygiological stress, high production of acid, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and alcohol consumption. Croton oligandrum is traditionally used to treat many diseases including gastric ulcers. This study aims to investigate the cytoprotective activity of Croton oligandrum. To assess the gastroprotective potential of Croton oligandrum ulcer models were established using ethanol and indomethacin. Sucralfate was used as reference anti-ulcer drugs. Rats were treated with Croton oligandrum before induction of gastric ulceration by ethanol/HCl or HCl-ethanol-Indomethacin. The area and ulcer index appearance of ulcers were quantified, and mucus was measured. Pretreatment with Croton oligandrum showed a remarkable decrease in ulcer area when compared with control groups. Croton oligandrum (50, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of body weight) exhibited gastroprotective activity and prevented both gastric lesions induced in rats.