The Effect of Red Rose Extract on Helicobacter Pylori Eradication: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Background Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is believed to be the most common bacterial infection worldwide. Herein, we aimed to investigate the effect of red rose extract on H. pylori eradication in 9 to 15 year-old children. Materials and Methods In this randomized controlled clinical trial,by the convenience sampling method 332 children were screened for H. pylori infection. Their stool samples were studied by the H. pylori Antigen Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) Test Kit. Positive cases were divided into two groups and received either red rose extract or placebo for 14 days. The stool exam was repeated once again at treatment termination. Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 21.0). Results In total 17.8% (n=59) of the 332 cases were positive for Helicobacter pylori stool antigen (HpSA), and 56 completed the study. The mean HpSA titer remained stable in the red rose extract treated group but it increased in the placebo group following intervention; however, the difference was statistically insignificant (p=0.57). Moreover, the intervention resulted in no difference in the eradication rate between the two groups (p=0.57). Conclusion Red rose extract did not reduce HpSA titer after intervention, so it cannot be solely considered as an alternative for H. pylori eradication. Further studies with a different dose and duration or with combined regimens are recommended.