Inhibitory Effect of Moringa Oleifera on Gastric Acid Secretion

Abstract

Introduction Gastric juice is secreted by the glands in the mucous membrane of the stomach and its essential constituents are water, mucus, digestive enzymes such as pepsin and lipase, electrolytes and hydrochloric acid (HCl). The best-known component of gastric juice secreted in the stomach is HCl (gastric acid) and it is the secretory product of the parietal cell (Sung, 2016). The effects of orally ingested substances on gastric function have been the subject of human investigation almost since the discovery of hydrochloric acid in gastric juice by Prout (1824). All foods are capable of stimulating gastric acid secretion through the distension of stomach but proteins are the major stimulants. Gastric acid secretion is a complex process that involves neuronal, hormonal, and endocrine pathways, all of which have one common target: the parietal cell. The parietal cell is responsible for secreting concentrated hydrochloric acid into the gastric lumen. Agents that inhibit gastric acid secretion such as H2-receptor blockers (Cimetidine, Ranitidine etc.), proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, rabeprazole etc.) are widely used to control increased acid secretion and acid related disorders. But however, adverse effects and relapse have been reported in the use of these agents The search for natural and available sources have led to the discovery several herbs used in the management several diseases including acid related

Interaction between aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaves and rabeprazole in treatment of ethanol induced gastric ulcer in Wistar rats

“…Moringa Oleifera is a commonly used herb in Nigeria [1]. It has been shown to have an inhibitory effect on gastric acid secretion [2]. Concomitant use of herbs/supplements containing Moringa Olefera with conventional drugs is common among patients as it is believed that moringa is a multi-therapeutic plant [3].…”

“…This study seeks to identify the effects of Moringa oleifera and rabeprazole when co-administered. It has been established that both Moringa oleifera and rabeprazole, separately have protective effects on gastric mucosal injury [2].…”