Antibacterial activities of Galla rhois extracts against Helicobacter pylori infection

In this study, a medicinal plant, Galla rhois (GR), was examined and screened for its anti-Helicobacter pylori activity. Galla rhois was extracted with 70% ethanol. Inhibitory zone tests, as in vitro assays, and an in vivo study using a Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) model were performed. The safety of the GR extract was then evaluated in an animal study. The Galla rhois extract demonstrated a strong anti-H. pylori activity as well as strong therapeutic effects against H. pylori infection in the in vivo animal experiments based on the histological criteria and the rapid urease test. Results of the safety study revealed that the animals had no detectable gross or histological changes after a 28 day treatment with the GR extract. These results demonstrate that the GR extract successfully cured H. pylori infections and protected against H. pylori-induced pathology. This herb could be a promising treatment for patients with gastric complaints including gastric ulcers caused by H. pylori.