New research has demonstrated the anti-ulcer properties of the herb known as Eruca sativa (EER).
A research team led by Dr. Syed Rafatullah from Saudi Arabia tested the properties of EER on experimentally-induced gastric secretion and ulceration in albino rats.
They found that the ethanolic extract of EER significantly reduced the basal gastric acid secretion, acidity and ulceration. The extract also significantly replenished gastric wall mucus, the stomachs protective layer that becomes eroded by the action of stomach acid.
The studys importance stems from the prevalence of gastric ulcers in the global population which negatively impacts the quality of life.
Moreover, traditional treatment options using proton-pump inhibitors treat symptoms rather than causes of the disease and their long term use may lead to adverse side effects.
EER is known as a salad vegetable and spice in the Middle East and Europe. It is believed that plants belonging to the same Brassicacae family possess many medicinal and therapeutic properties including inhibition of tumor growth and liver protection.
The study was published in April in the World Journal of Gastroenterology.