Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Ethnopharmacological Plants Widely Used in the Treatment of Pectic Ulcer Diseases

Abstract

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This review systematically explores the anti-ulcerogenic potential of medicinal plants, emphasizing their bioactive compounds and pharmacological properties, a topic underexplored in the context of peptic ulcer management. The inclusion of 33 studies from 2010-2024 offers a comprehensive analysis of plant species like Curcuma longa, Moringa oleifera, and Allium sativum, highlighting their multiple mechanisms of action, including anti-inflammatory and anti-H. pylori effects. The findings highlights the potential of these ethnobotanical resources to complement or replace synthetic drugs, addressing the growing need for safer and more effective peptic ulcer treatments. Full Abstract The common gastrointestinal ailment known as peptic ulcer is characterized by damage to the stomach and duodenum's mucosal integrity, mostly as a result of an unbalanced interaction between mucus production and other defensive systems and aggressive elements like gastric acid. Pain, loss of appetite, bloating, nausea, perforations, weight loss, bloody stools, or vomiting are some of the signs that identify the condition. The necessity for efficient treatment plans is highlighted by the rising incidence of peptic ulcers, which is made worse by conditions including Helicobacter pylori infection and NSAID use. Herbal drugs are emerging as alternative remedies for various health conditions. With an emphasis on the bioactive chemicals and pharmacological properties of these plants, this review investigates the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants in the management of peptic ulcers. A PRISMA-compliant systematic review was carried out to evaluate the anti-ulcerogenic qualities of a variety of medicinal plants. We looked through scientific databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, to find pertinent research that was published between 2010 and 2024. Terms like "peptic ulcer," "anti-ulcer plants," "plant-derived drugs for peptic ulcer," "herbal drugs," and "phytomedicine for peptic ulcer" were used in the search. Thirty-three (33) full-text articles out of 2,650 entries that were examined and found to match the inclusion criteria were included. Plant species, bioactive chemicals, and their proven effects on peptic ulcers in preclinical research were the main topics of data extraction. This review highlights the many modes of action and therapeutic applications of the several medicinal plant extracts that have been connected to anti-ulcer properties. The ethnobotanical plants were discovered to be a rich source of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, simple phenols, and saponins. Numerous therapeutic plants with potent anti-ulcerogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial qualities have been found to exist, such as Curcuma longa, Moringa oleifera, and Allium sativum. These plants improve mucosal defence systems, lower stomach acid output, control inflammatory mediators, and inhibit H. pylori, offering considerable therapeutic potential. More research is required to fully understand the medical potential of these natural medicines, as the findings show that they can successfully complement current treatments for peptic ulcers, lowering dependency on synthetic pharmaceuticals and minimizing associated adverse effects.