Peptic Ulcer Disease Treatment Using Herbal Plants: Harnessing Ethnobotanical Studies for Clinical Application

Background Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a major gastrointestinal disorder associated with Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) infection, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) use, and impaired mucosal defense. Ethnobotanical studies have revealed that the heavy reliance on medicinal plants as a treatment option for ulcers is usually guided by traditional knowledge and normal practice rather than scientific validation. Limitations of the existing conventional therapies have necessitated interest in scientifically evaluating the potential of medicinal plants. Objective This review integrates ethnobotanical, phytochemical, and experimental evidence on medicinal plants used in PUD management and examines their clinical translation relevance. Methods Ethnobotanical, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies were identified through structured database searches and analyzed for plant species, bioactive compounds, mechanisms, and therapeutic effects. Results Medicinal plants exhibited antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, cytoprotective, and mucosal healing activities, largely mediated by flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins. Conclusions The study has revealed medicinal plants as an ideal candidate for ulceration management.