Antiulcer activity of SafoofeVaj, a polyherbal Unani formulation, in Indomethacin induced gastric ulcer in rat

Abstract

Aim: SafoofeVaj is recommended in flatulence, dyspepsia, gastritis, burning sensation in the stomach, and associated
disorders in Unani literature. The aim of this study was to evaluate its antiulcer activity in Indomethacin induced
gastric ulcer owing its related use. Materials and Methods: Wistar rats of either sex were used in this study. Ulcer
was induced by administration of Indomethacin. Animals were divided into 10 groups of 6 animals each. Groups were
designated as negative control, positive control, two standard control as pre-treated, and post-treated with ranitidine,
three test groups as pre-treated with 400 mg/kg and 600 mg/kg 1000 mg/kg, and three curative groups as post-treated
with 400 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg. Animals were treated for 5 days before ulcer induction in preventive
groups and after the ulcer induction in curative groups. The stomach of animal was observed under lens for any lesions.
The scoring was done to calculate the ulcer index and ulcer score. Histopathology was carried out for microscopic
lesion. Results and Discussion: A reduction in the ulcer score was obverted more in pre-treated groups (P < 0.05)
indicating the preventive effect of the test drug. The test drug showed a dose-dependent effect. Histological findings
supported other findings. Conclusions: The study demonstrated that test drug possessed significant anti-ulcer effect.