Gastroprotective Effects of Aqueous Extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa Calyx on Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Background: Gastric ulcer is the most common gastrointestinal disorder associated with high morbidity and significant mortality and has been described as the plaque of the 19th and 20th centuries. The most conventional antiulcer drugs are largely ineffective and associated with disease recurrence, thus identifying natural products with potential antiulcer properties is essential. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential protective effects of aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa calyx (AEHSC) against nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric ulcer. Materials and Methods: Thirty male rats weighing 170–230 g were randomized into five groups as: ulcerated control group (distilled water, n = 6), experimental extract groups 1, 2, and 3 (AEHSC 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg, respectively, n = 6 each), and positive control group (ranitidine 20 mg/kg, n = 6); ulcer was induced using oral indomethacin 40 mg/kg, 30 min after all interventions. Rats were sacrificed 5 h after ulcer induction. Blood samples were taken for serum hydroxyproline determination; gastric tissues were also visualized (ulcer index (UI) and percentage of ulcer protection), and later stained and viewed under a microscope. Results: There was a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in UI in treated rats compared with control. The percentage of ulcer protection was also significantly increased (P < 0.05). Histological slides also indicated increased epithelial mucus secretion in stomach tissues of rat treated with AEHSC. Conclusions: AEHSC may be potentially beneficial in protection against the development of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers.