Gastroprotective effects of Thymus daenensis hydroalcoholic extract against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal ulcers in rats

Background & Aim:  Ulcer index is one of the most common diseases among people. Current therapies include acid secretion inhibitors which have various side effects. Herbal medicines are considered as adjuvant therapy for this disease. Hydroalcoholic extract of Thymus daenensis has various components such as flavonoids which contribute to gastroprotection. Experimental: 35 Sprague Dawley rats (200-250 g weight) were randomly divided into 7 groups: Group 1 received salin, Groups 2 and 3 and 4 (experimental groups) received ethanolic extract of Thymus daenensis (500 and 1000 and 1500 mg/kg respectively), Group 5 received omeprazole 20 mg/kg., Group 6 received orally carboxy methyl cellulose (omeprazol vehicle), Group 7(negative control) received saline. One hour later absolute ethanol was given orally to all rats except group 7 to induce gastric mucosal injury. After 4 hrs. the rats were anesthetized and sacrificed. Blood samples were collected through heart and were administrated to SOD measurement and gastric tissues were removed for histopathologic study and MDA assessment. Results & Discussion: The extract of plant was a significant and dose dependent effect to reduce ulcer index and to increase the percentage of ulcer inhibition. The study also indicated a significant increase in SOD activity in serum, whereas a significant decrease in MDA was observed. The ulcer protective effect of this plant may possibly be due to antioxidant effects and reduction of oxidative stress.