THE THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF ETHANOL EXTRACT FROM ARGYREIA ACUTA LOUR. LEAVES IN THE TREATMENT OF INDOMETHACIN-INDUCED GASTRITIS IN MICE

Abstract

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly associated with gastric mucosal injury. Based on its known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, this study hypothesized that the ethanol extract of Argyreia acuta leaves (EEAA) could attenuate indomethacin-induced gastric damage. Mice were allocated into six groups: normal control, indomethacin-induced ulcer model, omeprazole-treated, and three EEAA-treated groups (100, 200, 300 mg/kg). Gastric protection was assessed through gross ulceration, inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant biomarkers, and histopathological changes. Indomethacin administration led to marked mucosal lesions, inflammation, and oxidative stress. EEAA treatment, particularly at higher doses, significantly ameliorated these effects, improving gastric morphology, modulating cytokine expression, and restoring antioxidant balance. Histological findings further supported the protective effect. These results indicate that EEAA confers dose-dependent gastroprotection, mediated by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mechanisms, and offer therapeutic value against NSAID-induced gastric injury.