Mitigation of indomethacin-induced gastric inflammation in mice through the administration of ethanol extract from Hedyotis capitellata Wall. leaves

Background: Gastritis, a prevalent global malady, stems from various factors such as unhealthy lifestyles, bacterial infections, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug usage.If untreated, it leads to severe complications.Hedyotis capitellata Wall., recognized for its medicinal properties, is traditionally acknowledged for its effectiveness in pain relief, neutralizing gastric acid, reducing acid reflux, and promoting ulcer healing.The aim of the study: This study delves into exploring the preventive and protective prowess of H. capitellata leaf ethanol extract (EEHC) against indomethacin (IND)-induced gastric mucosal damage in mice.Materials and methods: EEHC administered at 300, 350, and 400 mg/kg doses, with omeprazole (OME) (20 mg/kg) as the reference standard, EEHC's impact was assessed on gastric acid levels, mucosal damage, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, antioxidant activity (catalase, myeloperoxidase, glutathione, total antioxidant capacity), cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10), and histopathology.Results: EEHC, particularly at 400 mg/kg, exhibited maximal inhibition of total gastric acid (8.58 ± 0.16 mEq/l), decreased MDA content (5.29±0.15nM/g tissue), and lowered pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α: 224.04±17.56pg/ml) compared to IND-treated mice (p