Gastro protective effect of Juniperus phoenicea L. leaf decoction on the peptic ulcer induced by NSAIDs

Peptic Ulcer Disease is a prevalent condition exacerbated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. This study evaluates the gastroprotective effect of Juniperus phoenicea L. leaf extract against diclofenac-induced ulcers in female NMRI mice. Aqueous extracts were prepared from J. phoenicea leaves, and a decoction was administered at 1,1 g/mouse/day. The study included four groups: control, ulcer-induced, ulcer-induced treated with J. phoenicea extract, and extract-treated. Gastric lesions were induced using diclofenac sodium (50 mg), and the protective effects of the extract were assessed through macroscopic and histological evaluations. Results indicated that J. phoenicea extract significantly reduced gastric lesions and maintained body weight in the treated groups, suggesting its potential as a gastroprotective agent. The findings support the traditional use of J. phoenicea in gastrointestinal therapies, highlighting its role in mitigating NSAID-induced gastric damage.