Anti-ulcer potentials of aqueous extract of Triticum aestivum on delayed healing of experimentally induced/gastric ulcer

Background: Ulcer reoccurrence and delay of healing caused by certain factors is now a major problem with the treatment of peptic ulcer. This study sought to unravel the role of Triticum aestivum in delayed ulcer healing in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Twenty five (25) Experimental animals (male Wistar rats) weighing 120g – 150g were randomly divided into five groups (N = 5) viz; I (Control), II (20% acetic acid ulceration + 2 mg/kg of indomethacin), III, IV, and V received 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg of T. aestivum + 20% acetic acid ulceration + 2 mg/kg of indomethacin. Ulcer was induced by serosa application of 20% acetic acid and was delayed by subcutaneous administration of 2 mg/kg of indomethacin for 14 days. Results: Findings from this study showed that the relative body weight changes decreased substantially in delayed untreated group juxtaposed to control which was improved in T. aestivum extract (TAE) groups. Total gastric acidity, ulcer area, and relative stomach weight were substantially (P < 0.05) increased in delayed ulcer group juxtaposed to control group. These changes were substantially reversed in TAE-treated groups. A substantial decrease was observed in the catalase level and expression of nitric oxide accompanied by an increase in malondialdehyde was noted in delayed ulcer group juxtaposed to control which were ameliorated in all TAE treated groups. Histological and macroscopic evaluations revealed that there was a substantial decrease in inflammation and erosion of the gastric mucosa in groups treated with T. aestivum juxtaposed to delayed ulcer group. Conclusion: It can thus be said that aqueous extract of T. aestivum attenuates delayed gastric ulcer healing due to antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. The highest concentration (200 mg/kg) in this proved to be the most beneficial.