Chemical model (etanol)-induced gastric ulcer for evaluation of the gastroprotective effect after administration of the aqueous extracto of Taxodium mucronatum in Wistar strain rats

Abstract

Since ancient times, the use of medicinal plants has yielded active ingredients of therapeutic interest. In Mexico, there are approximately 4,500 species, and at least 90% of the population has used them at some point in their lives, primarily to treat gastrointestinal illnesses. These conditions represent a significant health problem in Mexico and worldwide. Among the most common are irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, and peptic ulcers, which can be caused by bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori and E. coli, as well as by imbalances in the gut microbiota due to excessive consumption of irritants, fats, certain medications, unhealthy habits, and stress. One option that can be used is natural extracts, since many plants contain compounds such as terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, mucilage, glycosides, and steroids, which can act as gastroprotective agents. Its mechanisms include antisecretory and antioxidant effects, reduction of myeloperoxidase activity, and increased prostaglandin levels in the gastric mucosa. In this context, Taxodium mucronatum (ahuehuete), a common tree in Mexican forests, has been used as an antiseptic and anesthetic for the oral mucosa. Furthermore, its resin, leaves, and bark are used for wounds, ulcers, and skin conditions. Therefore, in this project, the aqueous extract of ahuehuete was evaluated in a chemical model of gastric mucosal lesions induced in Wistar rats. This research found that it exhibits gastroprotective activity at a dose of 600 mg/mL.