Exploring the Antiulcerogenic Properties of Cnidium monnieri Extract in Rodent Models

Gastric ulcers are a common gastrointestinal disorder often associated with excessive gastric acid secretion, oxidative stress, and mucosal damage. In the search for safer and plant-based alternatives to synthetic antiulcer drugs, this study evaluated the antiulcer potential of a hydroalcoholic extract of Cnidium monnieri in Wistar rats. The extract was administered orally at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg for 7 days, followed by ulcer induction using pylorus ligation and ethanol models. Ranitidine (50 mg/kg) was used as the standard reference drug. The extract significantly reduced ulcer index, gastric volume, and acidity while increasing pH in a dose-dependent manner. Antioxidant parameters such as malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased, while levels of glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased, indicating reduced oxidative stress. Histopathological analysis confirmed preservation of gastric mucosal architecture in treated groups. These results suggest that Cnidium monnieri extract exerts significant antiulcer activity, likely through antisecretory and antioxidant mechanisms, supporting its traditional use and potential as a natural gastroprotective agent.