Review of herbal medicines for antiulcer potential
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A methodical review on antiulcer potential of herbal medicines from natural origin
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Sukanya P. Paricharak, Sushma S. Chougule, Apeksha V. Masal, Dr. Atul A. Baravkar, Sagar G. Shinde, Pooja Deshmane and Dr. Sachin B. Kulkarni
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A methodical review on antiulcer potential of herbal medicines from natural origin
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20214-20112
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Peptic ulcers are a prevalent disorder of the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by open sores or deep lesions in the lining of the stomach, intestine, and duodenum. They can manifest as acute or chronic conditions, often due to an imbalance between aggressive and defensive factors, such as excess acid secretion, infections (especially by H. pylori), stress, and the use of certain medications like NSAIDs. Traditional treatments typically include antacids, antisecretory drugs, and antibiotic therapies, but these can lead to adverse side effects. Consequently, there has been a growing interest in exploring the potential of herbal medicines derived from natural sources as safe and cost-effective alternatives for treating peptic ulcers.
The Role of Herbal Medicines
The shift towards herbal medications in peptic ulcer treatment is driven by their safety profile compared to conventional therapies. Various studies have investigated the antiulcer properties of numerous plant extracts. These herbal remedies are believed to work through several mechanisms, including reducing gastric acid secretion, enhancing mucosal protection, and promoting healing of the gastric lining. Extracts from plants such as Moringa oleifera, Aloe vera, and Zingiber officinale have demonstrated protective effects against ulceration in animal models. The presence of phytochemicals—such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and tannins—in these plants contributes to their therapeutic potential, showcasing herbal medicine as a promising area of study.
Mechanisms of Action of Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals present in various medicinal plants exhibit distinct mechanisms that can help in preventing and treating ulcers. For instance, alkaloids reduce inflammation and oxidative stress while promoting mucosal blood flow. Terpenes and terpenoids are noted for increasing gastric mucus, thereby providing a protective barrier. Flavonoids, known for their antioxidant properties, contribute to anti-inflammatory responses in gastric tissues. The synergistic effect of these compounds often enhances their antiulcer activity, suggesting a multifaceted approach to therapy that leverages the biochemical diversity of plant extracts.
Clinical Implications and Research Gaps
Despite the promising results obtained from various preclinical studies on plant extracts for ulcer treatment, the transition from laboratory research to clinical applications remains limited. While many herbal remedies have demonstrated efficacy in controlled settings, only a small number have been translated into clinical practices due to a lack of comprehensive clinical trials and standardized formulations. There is a notable need for enhanced pharmacological and toxicological screenings to validate the effectiveness of these natural treatments and to ensure their safety for broader public use.
Conclusion
This review highlights the significant potential of herbal medicines in the prevention and treatment of peptic ulcers, presenting various medicinal plants with antiulcer properties and their mechanisms of action. Emphasizing the need for further research, it calls for scientific validation of traditional medicinal claims to develop effective herbal formulations. As interest in natural remedies rises, harmonizing traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry may facilitate innovative approaches to managing peptic ulcers and enhance patient outcomes in gastrointestinal health.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main cause of peptic ulcers?
Peptic ulcers result from an imbalance between aggressive factors, like acid secretion and H. pylori infection, and defensive factors, including mucosal protection. Other causes include NSAIDs, stress, alcohol, and smoking.
What are the common symptoms of peptic ulcers?
Symptoms of peptic ulcers typically include abdominal discomfort, nausea, epigastric pain, intolerance to fatty foods, sudden weight loss, loss of appetite, and sometimes, asymptomatic cases. Severe symptoms might involve bleeding and anemia.
How are peptic ulcers diagnosed?
Diagnosis of peptic ulcers involves assessing patient symptoms and history, complemented by endoscopy for visual inspection and size measurement. Tests for H. pylori infection and blood tests are also utilized.
What treatments are available for peptic ulcers?
Treatment for peptic ulcers includes antacids, H2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors, antibiotics for H. pylori infection, and ulcer protective agents. Herbal remedies are also increasingly considered due to fewer side effects.
How do herbal medicines help with ulcers?
Herbal medicines show antiulcer potential through various mechanisms, including reducing gastric acid secretion, enhancing mucosal defense, and exhibiting antimicrobial activity against H. pylori, making them safe and cost-effective alternatives.
Which plants are studied for antiulcer activity?
Numerous plants like Solanum tuberosum, Madhuka indica, and Citharexylum quadrangularis have been studied for antiulcer effects. Their extracts have shown efficacy in various ulcer models, supporting traditional use in ulcer treatment.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Review of herbal medicines for antiulcer potential”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ulcer:
Ulcers are commonly discussed in relation to medical issues pertaining to the digestive system. They can manifest in various locations such as the stomach and intestines, significantly affecting the quality of life. Understanding the nature and treatment of ulcers is crucial for effective health management.
2) Activity:
Activity in this context relates to the efficacy demonstrated by various medicinal plants against ulcers. The review highlights the biological activities of plant extracts, which include antiulcer effects. Such activities are vital for developing alternative treatments that utilize natural substances instead of synthetic drugs.
3) Drug:
Drugs encompass a range of substances, including both synthetic and natural compounds used to manage various health conditions. This review highlights the significance of studying both conventional pharmaceutical drugs and herbal remedies when addressing the treatment and prevention of peptic ulcers.
4) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a group of plant metabolites known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the context of ulcer healing, flavonoids play a critical role by reducing oxidative stress and promoting gastric mucosal health, making them a focus of research on alternative therapies.
5) Blood:
Blood is a bodily fluid delivering necessary substances to the cells and organs, including nutrients and oxygen. Its importance in ulcer studies lies in its ability to signal underlying issues such as bleeding, which can severely complicate ulcer conditions and lead to medical emergencies.
6) Table:
Table refers to the organized presentation of data in the review, summarizing key findings related to herbal plants tested for their antiulcer activities. Such tables are essential for quickly conveying complex information, facilitating comparison, and supporting evidence for efficacy claims.
7) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. The review highlights the relevance of antibacterial compounds found in certain herbal plants, specifically their effectiveness against H. pylori, a major contributor to gastric ulcers, supporting their use in combination therapies.
8) Medicine:
Medicines encompass both synthetic and natural substances used to treat illnesses. This review emphasizes the need for exploring herbal medicines as viable options for peptic ulcer treatment, promoting a shift toward natural therapies that minimize adverse effects compared to traditional pharmaceutical agents.
9) India:
India is significant in the context of this review due to its rich tradition of herbal medicine and its diverse flora. The study of medicinal plants in India contributes to global knowledge on alternative therapies, emphasizing the country’s potential in herbal pharmacotherapy.
10) Pain:
Pain is a common symptom associated with ulcers, often leading to significant discomfort in patients. Understanding the mechanisms of pain related to gastric ulcers is crucial for developing effective treatments, including both pharmaceutical and herbal interventions aimed at pain relief.
11) Surface:
Surface refers to the outer layer of tissues where ulcers form, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. Studying the surface response to various treatments provides insights into healing processes and the effectiveness of different compounds used in ulcer therapies.
12) Study (Studying):
Studying refers to the systematic examination of herbal remedies for their antiulcer potential. The review highlights ongoing research efforts aimed at understanding the therapeutic value of various plants, advocating for the continued exploration of natural treatments in the medical field.
13) Musha (Musa, Musá):
Musa refers to a genus of plants, including bananas, recognized for their potential antiulcer activity. The review mentions Musa paradisiaca, highlighting the bioactive compounds in its extracts that contribute to healing ulcers, stressing the relevance of this plant in traditional medicine.
14) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the effects and mechanisms of drugs on biological systems. This review examines the pharmacological actions of plant-derived compounds, aiming to validate their potential as effective treatments for ulcers, thus broadening the understanding of herbal pharmacology.
15) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plants that provide health benefits. The review focuses on the role of various phytochemicals, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, present in herbs that exhibit antiulcer properties, underscoring their importance for developing alternative therapies.
16) Alcoholism:
Alcoholism is noted as a contributing factor to the development of gastric ulcers. The review discusses how excessive alcohol intake leads to oxidative damage and inflammation in the gastric mucosa, prompting the need for effective treatment strategies that address both the behavior and its consequences.
17) Bleeding:
Bleeding is a serious complication of ulcers, often resulting from erosion of blood vessels in the gastric lining. Understanding the risk factors and mechanisms leading to bleeding is critical for developing effective management strategies and preventing severe outcomes in ulcer patients.
18) Reason:
Reason refers to the underlying causes of ulcer formation, such as imbalances between aggressive and defensive factors in the gastrointestinal tract. Identifying these reasons can guide more effective treatment options that target the root causes of ulcers rather than just their symptoms.
19) Rich (Rch):
Rich often describes the abundance of bioactive compounds within certain medicinal plants. This review identifies various plants as rich sources of therapeutic agents, highlighting how their compounds can be harnessed for developing effective antiulcer treatments and promoting overall gastric health.
20) Glycyrrhiza glabra:
Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as liquorice, is frequently mentioned in the review for its medicinal properties. It is acknowledged for its potential antiulcer activity and beneficial effects on gastric mucosa, representing an important herbal remedy cited for its effectiveness in ulcer treatment.
21) Pharmacotherapy:
Pharmacotherapy involves the use of medications to treat diseases. The review scrutinizes the role of pharmacotherapy in peptic ulcer management while advocating for the integration of herbal remedies as an important adjunct to conventional treatment strategies, potentially improving patient outcomes.
22) Liquorice (Licorice):
Liquorice, derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra, is emphasized for its healing properties. As an ingredient in traditional medicine, its antiulcer effects are explored in the review, showcasing its potential as a natural alternative to standard medications in peptic ulcer therapy.
23) Science (Scientific):
Scientific investigation is fundamental in validating the effectiveness of herbal treatments for ulcers. The review employs scientific methodologies to scrutinize the data, aiming to provide evidence-based insights that can enhance clinical practices and understanding of herbal pharmacology.
24) Madhuka:
Madhuka, or Madhuka indica, features in the review as a medicinal plant known for its therapeutic effects. The discussion underscores its antiulcer properties, aligning with the broader goal of identifying natural solutions for ulcers based on traditional medicinal practices.
25) Disease:
Disease, particularly peptic ulcer disease, indicates the pathological conditions resulting from imbalances within the gastrointestinal system. The review focuses on understanding the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments for this disease, particularly emphasizing natural remedies derived from various plants.
26) Garuga:
Garuga, specifically Garuga pinnata, is recognized in the review for its antiulcer potential. Its extracts are examined for their healing properties in gastric conditions, illustrating how specific plants can be sources of bioactive compounds beneficial for treating peptic ulcers.
27) Cancer:
Cancer is a severe disease referenced in the review as a possible consequence of chronic conditions such as untreated peptic ulcers. Although the primary focus is on ulcer treatment, understanding the broader implications of ulcer disease is critical for comprehensive patient care.
28) Nausea:
Nausea is a common symptom associated with ulcers that can significantly affect the patient’s quality of life. The review emphasizes the importance of addressing this symptom through effective treatments, both conventional and herbal, that seek to provide relief and improve health outcomes.
29) Beta:
Beta, particularly in reference to beta vulgaris (beetroot), is included in the review as a plant with potential therapeutic effects. The mention of beta underscores the significance of exploring a wide range of plants for their antiulcer properties in treating gastric disorders.
30) Bile:
Bile is referenced concerning its role in digestion and its interaction with gastric secretions. Understanding the implications of bile in ulcer formation and treatment helps inform the development of effective strategies aimed at restoring balance within the digestive system.
31) Mung:
Mung, or Vigna mungo, is highlighted as a medicinal plant exhibiting antiulcer properties. The discussion reinforces the significance of traditional knowledge regarding mung beans and their extracts, which are explored for their potential benefits in managing gastric ulcers.
32) Ripe:
Ripe often describes the optimal stage for harvesting certain fruits or plants used in traditional medicine. The review mentions ripe fruits of specific plants, indicating their readiness for extraction, which is crucial for maximizing therapeutic benefits in treating ulcers.
33) Salt (Salty):
Salt, while primarily associated with dietary intake and seasoning, plays a role in gastrointestinal health. The review may reference salt in relation to its potential effects on gastric secretions and the importance of managing dietary components in ulcer management.
34) Cyperus rotundus:
Cyperus rotundus, known as nutgrass, is noted for its medicinal properties in alleviating ulcers. The review emphasizes its inclusion in studies examining the antiulcer effects of various herbal remedies, showcasing the need for diverse plant-based therapies in medicine.
35) Human body:
The human body is the complex biological system that the review addresses, particularly its response to ulceration and treatment. Understanding the body's mechanisms is essential for developing effective therapies that promote healing and manage symptoms effectively.
36) Cordia dichotoma:
Cordia dichotoma is mentioned as a plant with medicinal properties beneficial for ulcer treatment. The review investigates its extracts for their effectiveness, emphasizing the role of various species in providing potential therapeutic solutions for peptic ulcers.
37) Ficus religiosa:
Ficus religiosa, known as the sacred fig, is highlighted for its health benefits, particularly in ulcer management. The review acknowledges its traditional uses, promoting further exploration of its pharmacological effects against gastric ulcers.
38) Allium sativum:
Allium sativum, or garlic, is recognized for its potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The review explores its use in treating ulcers and highlights its role in traditional medicine as a natural remedy, emphasizing its relevance in contemporary treatment strategies.
39) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key factor in ulcer development and exacerbation. The review discusses its role in the pathophysiology of ulcers, emphasizing the importance of anti-inflammatory treatments, including herbal medications, to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
40) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the analytical conversation within the review regarding the findings related to herbal treatments for ulcers. It contextualizes the relevance and implications of various studies, leading to insights that contribute to the understanding of alternative therapeutic approaches.
41) Irritation:
Irritation generally describes discomfort or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. The review addresses how various substances, including certain medications and dietary components, can lead to gastric irritation, exacerbating ulcer conditions and underscoring the need for careful management.
42) Substance:
Substance refers to the specific chemical ingredients present in medicinal plants that contribute to their therapeutic effects. The review emphasizes the importance of identifying these substances to understand their mechanisms of action in treating ulcers effectively.
43) Knowledge:
Knowledge encompasses the understanding gained through research, experience, and education. In the context of this review, the acquisition of knowledge about the medicinal properties of plants supports the development of effective treatments for peptic ulcers, improving healthcare outcomes.
44) Toxicity:
Toxicity is a crucial consideration when evaluating the safety of herbal treatments. The review stresses the importance of conducting thorough toxicity assessments of plant extracts to ensure that they are safe for human consumption, particularly in long-term ulcer management.
45) Solapur:
Solapur is identified as one of the locations in India where research in herbal medicines is conducted. The mention of Solapur underscores the regional contributions to the study of natural remedies for ulcers, linking traditional practices to modern scientific approaches.
46) Raising:
Raising may refer to increasing awareness or understanding of herbal treatments for ulcers. The review aims to contribute to the discourse surrounding the efficacy of natural remedies and their incorporation into broader healthcare practices.
47) Species:
Species refers to specific plant varieties examined for their antiulcer properties. This review discusses numerous species, emphasizing their unique chemical compositions and the importance of biodiversity in discovering effective herbal treatments for peptic ulcers.
48) Animal:
Animal refers to non-human subjects used for research purposes. In the context of this review, animals serve as models for studying the effects of herbal medicines on gastric ulcers, contributing valuable data that can inform future therapeutic strategies.
49) Natha:
Natha is likely a reference to Natha Nalawade, mentioned in the acknowledgment section of the review, indicating support for the research conducted. His involvement emphasizes the collaboration and mentorship in the exploration of herbal medicine research initiatives.
50) Sagar (Sagár):
Sagar refers to Sagar Shinde, one of the contributors to the research behind this review. His participation reflects collaborative efforts in the study of herbal medicines and suggests the importance of teamwork in advancing knowledge within pharmacological research.
51) Water:
Water plays an essential role in the physiological processes of the human body, including digestion and absorption. The review may address the importance of hydration for maintaining gastrointestinal health, which could support healing and recovery from gastric ulcers.
52) Masal:
Masal refers to Apeksha V. Masal, a contributing author in the study. Her input highlights the collaborative nature of the research presented in the review, demonstrating the involvement of various experts in compiling and analyzing data on herbal treatments.
53) Pooja:
Pooja Deshmane is mentioned as an author of the review, contributing to the exploration of peptic ulcer treatments derived from plants. Her involvement signifies the collaborative effort to address health issues through herbal medicine and the pursuit of effective therapeutic alternatives.
54) Field:
Field refers to the broader area of study encompassing pharmacology and herbal medicine. This review contributes to the field by highlighting the need for ongoing research into the efficacy of natural remedies for gastric ulcers, potentially influencing future therapeutic practices.
55) Money:
Money highlights the financial aspects surrounding research and development in herbal medicine. Adequate funding is crucial for conducting comprehensive studies, supporting the advancement of knowledge on plant-based therapies and their potential applications in treating ulcers.
56) Fight:
Fight relates to the struggle against health ailments like ulcers. The review emphasizes the importance of harnessing natural remedies to combat ulcer formation and related complications effectively, promoting holistic approaches that involve both prevention and treatment.
57) Pune:
Pune is referenced as a significant geographical location related to research in pharmacology and herbal medicine. The mention of Pune suggests a concentration of academic and research institutions focusing on exploring natural remedies for health issues like ulcers.
58) Food:
Food plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal health, influencing the onset of conditions like ulcers. The review discusses dietary considerations and emphasizes the importance of nutritional balance in preventing and managing ulcer-related symptoms effectively.
59) Mast:
Mast is not explicitly defined in relation to the review topic; however, it may imply contentment or well-being. The context surrounding mast could relate to achieving optimal health outcomes through effective ulcer treatments derived from herbal sources.
60) Sign:
Sign refers to indicators or symptoms related to ulcers. Understanding the signs of ulcer development is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment, as highlighted in the review’s discussion on the clinical implications of gastrointestinal ailments.
61) Male:
Male is mentioned likely in the context of gender-related studies or observations concerning ulcer prevalence and treatment response. Understanding gender differences in health issues like ulcers can contribute to tailored therapeutic approaches in clinical settings.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Review of herbal medicines for antiulcer potential’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Flavonoid, Herbal medicine, Antibiotic therapy, Peptic ulcer, Phytochemical screening, Polyherbal formulation, Traditional System of Medicine, Reactive oxygen species (ROS), Tannin, Gastric ulcer, Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), Saponin, Alkaloid, Gastric acid secretion, Mucosal blood flow.