Evaluation of the antiulcer activity of the aqueous stem bark extract of Balanites aegyptiaca L Delile in Wistar rats

Balanites aegyptiaca L. Delile (Zygophyllaceae) is a perennial tree that is mostly found in Africa, south Asia and most desert environments. Decoctions of its stem barks are used in northern Nigeria for the treatment of ulcers and stomach issues. Other folkloric uses include treatment of wounds, malaria, dysentery, asthma, and fever. Aim of the study: The present study evaluated the antiulcer activity of the aqueous stem bark extract of Balanites aegyptiaca in Wistar rats. The antiulcer activity of the aqueous stem bark extract of Balanites aegyptiaca (125, 250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) was evaluated in ethanol, indomethacin, pylorus ligation and acetic acid-induced ulcer models in rats. Parameters such as mean ulcer indices and percentage ulcer inhibition were assessed in ethanol, indomethacin and acetic acid-induced ulcer models while gastric volume, pH, and titratable acidity were evaluated in the pylorus ligation ulcer model. The extract at the doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg caused a significant (p