Gastroprotective Potential of Saathiladhi Chooranam: An Experimental Study in Aspirin and Pylorus Ligation-Induced Ulcer Models

Abstract

Gastric ulcer is a common gastrointestinal disorder caused by an imbalance between aggressive factors such as gastric acid, pepsin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and protective factors including mucus secretion and mucosal integrity. Saathiladhi Chooranam (SC) is a Siddha herbal formulation traditionally prescribed for stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal ailments. The present study was designed to evaluate the anti-ulcer activity of SC in aspirin-induced and pylorus ligation-induced gastric ulcer models in Wistar albino rats. In the aspirin-induced ulcer model, animals were divided into four groups: control, standard, and test groups, standard drug (omeprazole 10mg/kg), and test drug SC at low and high doses. Ulcer index, percentage protection, and histopathological changes were evaluated. In the pylorus ligation model, gastric parameters such as pH, volume of gastric juice, free acidity, and total acidity were assessed. Statistical data were analysed by One-way ANOVA followed by Student’s t-test. SC showed a significant and dose-dependent reduction in ulcer index in both models. The high dose of SC demonstrated greater protection comparable to the standard drug. In pylorus ligation, SC significantly reduced gastric secretion, free acidity, and total acidity, and increased gastric pH. Histopathological studies confirmed reduced mucosal damage and inflammatory cell infiltration in the test groups. The findings suggest that SC possesses significant anti-ulcer activity, possibly due to its anti-secretory and cytoprotective properties. Further studies are required to elucidate its exact mechanism of action and to confirm its safety and efficacy. Acute toxicity studies revealed no mortality or observable signs of toxicity up to 2000mg/kg, indicating the safety of the test compound.