Enhancement of Gastric Mucosal Defense by Phytomedicine in the Context of H. pylori–Associated Ulcer Disease

Gastric ulcer disease remains a significant global health concern, with Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) infection being a primary etiological factor. Conventional therapies are increasingly limited by antibiotic resistance, treatment failure, and adverse effects. In this context, phytomedicine has emerged as a promising complementary and alternative therapeutic approach. This review systematically discusses the key mechanisms by which phytomedicines enhance gastric mucosal defense, including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory modulation, inhibition of urease and bacterial adhesion, suppression of virulence factors, and restoration of epithelial barrier integrity. Plant-derived bioactive compounds demonstrate multi-targeted gastroprotective effects through modulation of oxidative stress, cytokine signaling, prostaglandin synthesis, and tight junction preservation. While preclinical and limited clinical evidence support their therapeutic potential, further well-designed clinical trials and standardized phytochemical formulations are required to validate translational applicability. Keywords: antioxidant, gastric ulcer, H. pylori , inflammation, phytomedicine