Gastroprotective effect of an aqueous suspension of black cumin Nigella sativa on necrotizing agents-induced gastric injury in experimental animals

The effectiveness and safety of natural food and food-derived extract supplements for treating functional gastrointestinal disorders-current perspectives

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) were highly prevalent and involve gastrointestinal discomfort characterized by non-organic abnormalities in the morphology and physiology of the gastrointestinal tract. According to the Rome IV criteria, irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia are the most common FGIDs. Complementary and alternative medicines are employed by increasing numbers of individuals around the world, and they include herbal and dietary supplements, acupuncture, and hypnosis. Of these, herbal and dietary supplements seem to have the greatest potential for relieving FGIDs, through multiple modes of action. However, despite the extensive application of natural extracts in alternative treatments for FGIDs, the safety and effectiveness of food and orally ingested food-derived extracts remain uncertain. Many randomized controlled trials have provided compelling evidence supporting their potential, as detailed in this review. The consumption of certain foods (eg, kiwifruit, mentha, ginger, etc) and food ingredients may contribute to the alleviation of symptoms associated with FGID,. However, it is crucial to emphasize that the short-term consumption of these components may not yield satisfactory efficacy. Physicians are advised to share both the benefits and potential risks of these alternative therapies with patients. Furthermore, larger randomized clinical trials with appropriate comparators are imperative.

Therapeutic and Phytochemical Properties of Thymoquinone Derived from Nigella sativa

BACKGROUND

Nigella sativa (N. sativa), commonly known as black seed or black cumin, belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. It contains several phytoconstituents, Thymoquinone (TQ), thymol, thymohydroquinone, carvacrol, and dithymoquinone. TQ is the main phytoconstituent present in N. sativa that is used as an herbal compound, and it is widely used as an antihypertensive, liver tonic, diuretic, digestive, anti-diarrheal, appetite stimulant, analgesic, and antibacterial agent, and in skin disorders.

OBJECTIVE

The study focused on collecting data on the therapeutic or pharmacological activities of TQ present in N. sativa seed.

METHODS

Antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, hepato-protective, renal protective, and antioxidant properties of TQ have been studied by various scientists.

CONCLUSION

TQ seems to have a variety of consequences on how infected cells behave at the cellular level.

Integrated traditional herbal medicine in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorder: the pattern of use and the knowledge of safety among the Eastern Region Saudi population

BACKGROUND

Herbal medicine is commonly integrated with conventional medicine in Saudi Arabia, especially for the management of digestive disorders. However, the majority of Saudis use herbal remedies without prior consultation with a physician, which raises concerns about their appropriate and safe use. The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness among the Saudi population regarding the proper utilization and potential adverse effects of frequently used herbs for the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia from January to March 2021. An electronic self-administered questionnaire was distributed.

RESULTS

A total of 543 participants from different age groups, educational levels, and cities across Saudi Arabia completed the study questionnaire. The most commonly used herbs at home by the participants were: myrrh, parsley, black seed, chamomile, mint, anise, clove, and green tea. 57.7% of the participants perceived herbs as safer than conventional medicines; 27.3% reported that using herbal remedies over conventional medicine was a family tradition, and 21.4% used herbs because they were cheaper than conventional medicines.

CONCLUSION

Herbal remedies, including myrrh, parsley, blackseed, chamomile, mint, and anise, are commonly employed for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders in Saudi Arabia. However, the knowledge level of participants regarding potential side effects and drug-herb interactions was found to be deficient. As such, there is a pressing need for educational campaigns and community awareness programs to elucidate the proper usage of herbal remedies and to caution against their potential adverse effects.

Silver nanoparticles synthesized from Quercus brantii ameliorated ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats by decreasing oxidative stress and improving antioxidant systems

Gastric ulcers are caused by an imbalance between aggressive and defensive factors. The green synthesis of silver nanoparticles is becoming a new and promising method in the treatment of gastrointestinal ulcers. This study was conducted to investigate the protective and antioxidant effects of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Quercus brantii extract (NSQBE) on gastric damage induced by alcohol in rats. In this study, silver nanoparticles were produced by the green synthesis method using oak extract. The structure and morphology of nanoparticles were confirmed by various techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, fourier transforms infrared spectrometer (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), and dynamic light scattering )DLS(. For the animal studies, 30 male Wistar rats weighing 200 ± 20 g were randomly selected and divided into five groups (the normal, ethanolic, NSQBE treatment (received doses of 20 and 5 mg/kg), and standard (received a dose of 50 mg/kg of ranitidine) groups. After the rats were euthanized, their stomach was removed. A part of the stomach tissue of rats was used for histopathological studies, and the other part was used to study biochemical parameters such as the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), protein carbonyl oxidation (PCO), malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as nitric oxide (NO). Our results showed that in the ethanol group, the levels of ROS, MDA, PCO, and serum NO were higher than in the normal group. In addition, reduced GSH, CAT, SOD, tissue NO, gastric mucus, and antioxidant potential were decreased. In rats pretreated with NSQBE and ranitidine, the levels of ROS, MDA, PCO, and serum NO decreased, and the levels of GSH, CAT, SOD, tissue NO, gastric mucus, and antioxidant potential were increased in comparison to the ethanol group. The results of this study showed that silver nanoparticles synthesized using Quercus brantii are a promising approach for the treatment of gastric ulcers.

A Review of the Potential Health Benefits of Nigella sativa on Obesity and Its Associated Complications

Obesity has become a worldwide epidemic and its prevalence continues to increase at an alarming rate. It is considered a major risk factor for the development of several comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes, stroke, other cardiovascular diseases and even cancer. Conventional treatments for obesity, such as dietary interventions, exercise and pharmacotherapy, have proven to have limited effectiveness and are often associated with undesirable side effects. Therefore, there is a growing interest in exploring alternative therapeutic approaches. Nigella sativa (NS), a medicinal plant with multiple pharmacological properties, has gained attention due to its potential role in the treatment of obesity and its associated complications. The aim of this review is therefore to assess the effects of NS on obesity and its complications and to provide insights into the underlying mechanisms. From this review, NS appears to play a complementary or supportive role in the treatment of obesity and its complications. However, future studies are needed to verify the efficacy of NS in the treatment of obesity and its complications and to prove its safety so that it can be introduced in patients with obesity.

Natural Melanin: Current Trends, and Future Approaches, with Especial Reference to Microbial Source

Melanin is a universal natural dark polymeric pigment, arising in microorganisms, animals, and plants. There is a couple of pieces of literature on melanin, each focusing on a different issue, the goal of the present review is to focus on microbial melanin. It has numerous benefits with very few drawbacks. The current situation and expected trends are discussed. Intriguing, numerous studies have provoked a serious necessity for a comprehensive assessment of microbial melanin pigments. So that, such review would help scholars from diverse backgrounds to realize the importance of melanin pigments isolated from microorganisms, with this aim in mind, information, and hypothesis from this review could be the paradigm for studies on melanin in the next era.

A Review on Extraction, Characterization, and Applications of Bioactive Peptides From Pressed Black Cumin Seed Cake

Plenty of black cumin cake was generated as a natural waste material after pressing the oil. Nigella sativa (black cumin) seeds and cakes are of precious nutritional value as they contain proteins, phenolics, essential amino acids, and bioactive compounds. Owing to their antioxidant properties, scientists and food manufacturers have extensively developed them. Notably, global awareness among consumers about the benefits of innovative food ingredients has been increased. Meanwhile, it has to be noted that vast amounts of cake by-products are not effectively utilized, which might cause economic loss and environmental consequences. This review aimed to highlight the antioxidant abilities, extraction, characterization, functional characteristics, and utilization of active peptides acquired from black seed oil cake. This overview would critically evaluate black seed cake proteins, plentiful in bioactive peptides that might be utilized as valuable additives in feed, food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. The addition of bioactive peptides to restrain the oxidation of fat-based products and preserve food safety is also addressed.

Effect of Nigella sativa, atorvastatin, or L-Carnitine on high fat diet-induced obesity in adult male Albino rats

Obesity is increasing rapidly across the globe. It is widely accepted that natural products with a long safety background may modulate obesity. The current work aimed to investigate the effect of Nigella sativa, atorvastatin, or L-Carnitine on high-fat diet-induced obesity in white male albino rats. A regular basal diet was fed to 7 rats, and a high-fat diet (HFD) was fed to 24 rats throughout the study for 12 weeks. The HFD group was split equally into four subgroups, each containing six rats. The first group fed on HFD with no medication, the second group received HFD+ Nigella sativa, the third group received HFD+ atorvastatin, and the fourth group received HFD+L-carnitine. At the beginning of the seventh week (the start of the treatment regimen), Nigella sativa, atorvastatin, or L-Carnitine were administered for six weeks. Glucose, body weight, serum atherogenic index (AI), ALT, and AST activities were analyzed. The pathological alterations in the hepatic tissues were examined microscopically and scored. The results revealed that the HFD diet significantly increased the final body weight, serum AI, and serum levels of liver enzymes. Treatment with L-carnitine or Nigella sativa significantly normalized the lipid profile and decreased the final body weight, serum AI, and Serum ALT. Histopathological examination of the liver of HFD received rats showed features of steatosis, which were mitigated by the administration of Nigella sativa or L-Carnitine, while atorvastatin had no significant effect on the improvement of hepatic lesions. Collectively, study findings showed that Nigella sativa or L-Carnitine has mitigated effects on metabolic and histopathological changes in the liver tissues of rats fed with HFD.

Recent Progress on Chemical Constituents and Pharmacological Effects of the Genus Nigella

Seeds of the genus Nigella plants as folk medicine are often used to prevent and treat asthma, diarrhea, dyslipidemia, and other diseases around the world. Pharmacological researches showed that seed extract and seed oil have antibacterial, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects which attributed to their bioactive constituents such as alkaloids, saponins, flavones, and phenols. This paper has covered recent progresses on chemical and pharmacological researches on these plants, including their compounds and pharmacological effects. It was found that the chemical component researches were focused on the seed oil. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the profile of the whole constituents in the seeds.

Alaofi A, Awan ZA, Alqarni HM, Alhakamy NA. Optimization of Thymoquinone-Loaded Coconut Oil Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for the Management of Ethanol-Induced Ulcer

In the global incidence of peptic ulcer, with the associated rates of hospitalizations and mortality are increasing, in the United States, peptic ulcer disease affects approximately 4.6 million people annually, with an estimated 10% of the US population having evidence of a duodenal ulcer. The present research aims to find a novel treatment for ethanol induced ulcer by loading thymoquinone (TQ) on a nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC), using Compritol® 888 and coconut oil. The TQ-loaded coconut oil NLC was formulated using melt emulsification combined with a sonication method using Poloxamer 188 as a surfactant. Finally, the optimization of the formulations was performed on a three-factor, three-level Box-Behnken statistical design, with 85.63% entrapment efficiency of TQ in the optimized formulation. A biphasic release pattern of the formulation was recorded in an in vitro drug release study, where the initial burst release of the drug was observed in the first 2 h, followed by a gradual release. Later, the TQ-loaded coconut oil NLC was found to protect the gastric mucous membrane more effectively (78.95% in.; p < 0.01) in an alcohol-induced ulcer model, whereas the TQ suspension showed 30.87% inhibition (p < 0.05) of the ulcerative index, when compared with the ulcer control group. The histopathological evaluations of the stomach in ulcer-induced animals demonstrated protection potential of TQ-loaded coconut oil NLC against an alcohol-induced gastric ulcer. In a nutshell, the entrapment of TQ within the NLC was found to deliver the entrapped drug more effectively when administered through an oral route to possess a gastroprotective effect.

The Therapeutic Effect of Nigella sativa Seed on Indomethacin-induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

Background:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, gastric complications remain a major problem limiting their clinical usage. This study was carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effect of Nigella sativa seed (N. sativa seed) hydroalcoholic extract on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer in rats and its possible mechanism.

Methods:

This study was carried out on forty-eight male Wistar rats. Gastric ulcer was induced by indomethacin (35 mg/kg). N. sativa seed extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) and ranitidine (50 mg/kg) was administered orally for five days after ulcer induction. Ulcer index, gastric acid secretion, gastric mucus content, total thiol, malondialdehyde (MDA), and total hexose, and protein content in gastric juice were determined.

Results:

The ulcer index in groups of N. sativa seed was significantly lower as compared to indomethacin group. N. sativa seed significantly decreased MDA and protein content, but increased total thiol, total hexose, and mucus content as compared to indomethacin group. N. sativa seed did not affect gastric acid secretion.

Conclusion:

These findings showed that the gastroprotective effect of N. sativa seed against indomethacin- induced ulcer was mainly exerted by antioxidant activity, stimulation of gastric mucus secretion and also increased total hexose in the gastric mucosa.

The preventive effect of Nigella sativa seed on gastric ulcer induced by indomethacin in rat

Introduction: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are considered as one of the most administrated groups of medications worldwide. Due to the role of NSAIDs in inducing gastric ulceration, their clinical applications are still challenging. Nigella sativa seed is widely used as an herbal medication against gastrointestinal complications. The present experiment was carried out to investigate the impact of N. sativa seed hydro-alcoholic extract on gastric ulcer induced by indomethacin (IND) and to evaluate its possible mechanisms in rat. Methods: This study was performed on 48 male Wistar rats. Acute gastric ulceration was induced by IND (35 mg/kg). N. sativa seed extract (100, 200, 400 mg/kg) and ranitidine (50 mg/kg) were administered orally for five days before the induction ulcer. Ulcer index, gastric acid secretion, gastric mucus content, glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), total hexose, gastric juice protein content were determined on the fifth day. Results: The ulcer index in all groups of N. sativa seed was significantly lower than that of the IND group. N sativa seed considerably decreased MDA and protein content, but increased total thiol, total hexose, and mucus content compared to the IND group. N. sativa seed did not affect gastric acid secretion. Conclusion: These findings were indicative of the gastroprotective effect of N. sativa seed against the IND-induced ulcer, suggesting that it can mainly be exerted through the anti-oxidant activity of the extract as well as its role in stimulating gastric mucus secretion and increasing total hexose in the gastric mucosa.

An Overview on Renoprotective Effects of Thymoquinone

Background

Kidneys as vital organs remove waste material from blood. Additionally, they may also have a role in the electrolyte balance, regulation of blood pressure, and red blood cell genesis. Kidney diseases may be caused by several factors such as ischemia/reperfusion injury, diabetes, and nephrotoxic agents. Oxidative stress and inflammation are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of kidney diseases. Traditionally, natural antioxidants are used for treatment of renal failure in various countries.

Summary

People usually select natural antioxidants since they have an opinion that herbal medicine has not any important side effects. Nigella sativa is a flavoring herb that is widely used as a condiment and as a remedy for many disorders. Thymoquinone (TQ), the most important component of black seeds, mainly oil, is considered as an active agent responsible for a lot of the seed's useful effects. This review describes the protective roles and related mechanisms of TQ against renal disorders. The search terms, including TQ, antioxidant, renal ischemia-reperfusion, diabetic nephropathy, and nephrotoxic agent were searched in scientific databases. TQ showed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in animal and in vitro models of several renal diseases caused by inflammation and oxidative stress.

Key Messages

Experimental studies have shown beneficial effects of TQ against renal diseases; however, well-designed clinical trials in humans are required to confirm these effects.

Analgesic Properties of Nigella Sativa and Eucheuma Cottonii Extracts

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the analgesic properties of the aqueous extracts of Nigella sativa and Eucheuma cottonii in mice. The analgesic properties of both extracts were evaluated in an experimental model of acetic acid-induced writhing test.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mice were divided into four different groups and received the test extracts and the standard drug (aspirin) for 14 days via force-feeding. On day 15, the mice were injected with 5% acetic acid, and the number of abdominal constriction and elongation of hind limb (writhes) were counted for 20 min.

RESULTS

The numbers of writhes were counted starting after 5 min of the acetic acid injection. The N. sativa extracts significantly reduced the number of writhes as compared to the control group. Both of the extracts revealed a comparable result as referred to the aspirin effects in the mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that N. sativa and E. cottonii may possess protective active constituent that is effective in reducing the sensation of pain in mice.

Chemical characterization, toxicology and mechanism of gastric antiulcer action of essential oil from Gallesia integrifolia (Spreng.) Harms in the in vitro and in vivo experimental models

Gallesia integrifolia is a Brazilian Amazon tree whose bark decoction is popularly used to treat peptic ulcer. The essential oil from the inner stem bark of G. integrifolia (EOGi) was chemically characterized by GC/MS. The in vitro cytotoxicity and genotoxicity were evaluated in CHO-K1 cells, while the in vivo oral acute toxicity was performed in mice. The gastroprotective effect of EOGi was assessed in acidified ethanol and piroxicam and ulcer healing on acetic acid -induced ulcer models in rodents. Anti-secretory, mucus, K⁺-ATP channels, prostaglandins (PGs), nitric oxide (NO), TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-10, catalase (CAT) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activities and in vitro Helicobacter pylori action by EOGi were evaluated. EOGi exhibited cytotoxic effects only at 72h and no acute toxicity. EOGi showed gastroprotective and ulcer healing effects. EOGi gastroprotection was attenuated by indomethacin pre-treatment. Gastric volume and total acidity were reduced, while gastric pH was elevated. EOGi increased mucus and NO productions and CAT activity, and inhibited MPO activity, TNF-α and IL-1β concentrations and augmented IL-10. EOGi was not active against H. pylori. These results indicated that EOGi is safe and exerts preventive and curative gastric ulcer effects by multitarget actions. Twenty compounds were identified and (-)-alpha-santalene was the main compound.

Pharmacological Properties of Melanin and its Function in Health

The biological pigment melanin is present in most of the biological systems. It manifests a host of biological and pharmacological properties. Its role as a molecule with special properties and functions affecting general health, including photoprotective and immunological action, are well recognized. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, radioprotective, hepatic, gastrointestinal and hypoglycaemic benefits have only recently been recognized and studied. It is also associated with certain disorders of the nervous system. In this MiniReview, we consider the steadily increasing literature on the bioavailability and functional activity of melanin. Published literature shows that melanin may play a number of possible pharmacological effects such as protective, stimulatory, diagnostic and curative roles in human health. In this MiniReview, possible health roles and pharmacological effects are considered.

Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutic uses of black seed (Nigella sativa)

Black seed (Nigella sativa) is an annual flowering plant from Ranunculaceae family, native to southwest Asia. This plant has many food and medicinal uses. The use of its seeds and oil is common for treatment of many diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, inflammatory diseases, diabetes and digestive diseases. The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive review on the scientific reports that have been published about N. sativa. The facts and statistics presented in this review article were gathered from the journals accessible in creditable databases such as Science Direct, Medline, PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, EMBASE, SID and IranMedex. The keywords searched in Persian and English books on medicinal plants and traditional medicine, as well as the above reputable databases were "Black seed", "Nigella sativa", "therapeutic effect", and "medicinal plant". The results showed that N. sativa has many biological effects such as anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and wound healing activities. It also has effects on reproductive, digestive, immune and central nervous systems, such as anticonvulsant and analgesic activities. In summary, it can be used as a valuable plant for production of new drugs for treatment of many diseases.

Neuropharmacological effects of Nigella sativa

Nigella sativa (NS) (Ranunculaceae family) is generally utilized as a therapeutic plant all over the world. The seeds of the plant have a long history of use in different frameworks of medicines and food. In Islamic literature, it is considered as one of the greatest forms of therapeutics. It has been widely used to treat nervous system diseases such as memory impairment, epilepsy, neurotoxicity, pain, etc. Additionally, this is uncovered that the majority of therapeutic properties of this plant are due to the presence of thymoquinone (TQ) which is a major bioactive component of the essential oil. Pharmacological studies have been done to evaluate the effects of NS on the central nervous system (CNS). The present review is an effort to provide a detailed scientific literature survey about pharmacological activities of the plant on nervous system. Our literature review showed that NS and its components can be considered as promising agents in the treatment of nervous system disorders.

Gastrointestinal effects of Nigella sativa and its main constituent, thymoquinone: a review

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases affect a large number of people all over the world. Uncontrolled acid secretion and occurrence of gastric ulcers are common disorders of GI tract which pose serious problems to human health. Many synthetic drugs have been used to treat GI disorders but a definite cure has not been discovered so far and the available medications cause several side effects. Nigella sativa (N. sativa) (Ranunculacea) has several therapeutic effects which are attributed to its constituents like nigellicine, nigellidine, thymoquinone, dithymoquinone, thymol and carvacrol. Several beneficial pharmacological properties of this plant such as anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-histaminic, anti-hypertensive, hypoglycemic, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and immunomodulatory effects were reported and different therapeutic properties such as reliving bronchial asthma, jaundice, hydrophobia, paralysis, conjunctivitis, piles, skin diseases, anorexia, headache, dysentery, infections, obesity, back pain, hypertension and gastrointestinal problems, have been described for the seeds of N. sativa and its oil. The present review provides a detailed summery of scientific researches regarding gastrointestinal effect of N. sativa and its main constituent, thymoquinone.

The gastroprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Monolluma quadrangula against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries in Sprague Dawley rats

Monolluma quadrangula (Forssk.) Plowes is used in Saudi traditional medicines to treat gastric ulcers. The hydroalcoholic extract of M. quadrangula (MHAE) was used in an in vivo model to investigate its gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced acute gastric lesions in rats. Five groups of Sprague Dawley rats were used. The first group was treated with 10% Tween 20 as a control. The other four groups included rats treated with absolute ethanol (5 mL/kg) to induce an ulcer, rats treated with 20 mg/kg omeprazole as a reference drug, and rats treated with 150 or 300 mg/kg MHAE. One hour later, the rats were administered absolute ethanol (5 mL/kg) orally. Animals fed with MHAE exhibited a significantly increased pH, gastric wall mucus, and flattening of the gastric mucosa, as well as a decreased area of gastric mucosal damage. Histology confirmed the results; extensive destruction of the gastric mucosa was observed in the ulcer control group, and the lesions penetrated deep into the gastric mucosa with leukocyte infiltration of the submucosal layer and edema. However, gastric protection was observed in the rats pre-fed with plant extracts. Periodic acid-Schiff staining of the gastric wall revealed a remarkably intensive uptake of magenta color in the experimental rats pretreated with MHAE compared to the ulcer control group. Immunohistochemistry staining revealed an upregulation of the Hsp70 protein and a downregulation of the Bax protein in rats pretreated with MHAE compared with the control rats. Gastric homogenate showed significantly increased catalase and superoxide dismutase, and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was reduced in the rats pretreated with MHAE compared to the control group. In conclusion, MHAE exhibited a gastroprotective effect against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats. The mechanism of this gastroprotection included an increase in pH and gastric wall mucus, an increase in endogenous enzymes, and a decrease in the level of MDA. Furthermore, protection was given through the upregulation of Hsp70 and the downregulation of Bax proteins.

Efficacy and safety of honey based formulation of Nigella sativa seed oil in functional dyspepsia: A double blind randomized controlled clinical trial

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

A honey based formulation from Nigella sativa L. (N. sativa) has been used in Traditional Persian Medicine for upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Considering the traditional use of this formulation and its ingredients known pharmacologic effects, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of N. sativa seed oil mixed with honey in treatment of patients with functional dyspepsia.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Seventy patients diagnosed with functional dyspepsia according to ROME III criteria and confirmed by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were selected to receive a traditional honey based formulation of N. sativa (5 ml N. sativa oil orally daily) or placebo for 8 weeks in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial using a parallel design with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Patients were evaluated prior to and following 8 weeks of the intervention in terms of the Hong Kong index of dyspepsia severity, presence of Helicobacter pylori infection based on urease test, scores in different domains of short form (SF-36) health survey, and any observed adverse events.

RESULTS

The mean scores of Hong Kong index of dyspepsia severity sores and the rate of H. pylori infection were significantly lower in the N. sativa group comparing the placebo group after the intervention (P<0.001). No serious adverse event was reported.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that adjuvant supplementation of honey based formulation of N. sativa can cause significant symptomatic improvement of patients with functional dyspepsia whom received the standard anti-secretory therapy. The results should be investigated further in studies with longer duration and larger sample size.

A review on therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) (Family Ranunculaceae) is a widely used medicinal plant throughout the world. It is very popular in various traditional systems of medicine like Unani and Tibb, Ayurveda and Siddha. Seeds and oil have a long history of folklore usage in various systems of medicines and food. The seeds of N. sativa have been widely used in the treatment of different diseases and ailments. In Islamic literature, it is considered as one of the greatest forms of healing medicine. It has been recommended for using on regular basis in Tibb-e-Nabwi (Prophetic Medicine). It has been widely used as antihypertensive, liver tonics, diuretics, digestive, anti-diarrheal, appetite stimulant, analgesics, anti-bacterial and in skin disorders. Extensive studies on N. sativa have been carried out by various researchers and a wide spectrum of its pharmacological actions have been explored which may include antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, hepato-protective, renal protective, gastro-protective, antioxidant properties, etc. Due to its miraculous power of healing, N. sativa has got the place among the top ranked evidence based herbal medicines. This is also revealed that most of the therapeutic properties of this plant are due to the presence of thymoquinone which is major bioactive component of the essential oil. The present review is an effort to provide a detailed survey of the literature on scientific researches of pharmacognostical characteristics, chemical composition and pharmacological activities of the seeds of this plant.

Biochanin a gastroprotective effects in ethanol-induced gastric mucosal ulceration in rats

BACKGROUND

Biochanin A notable bioactive compound which is found in so many traditional medicinal plant. In vivo study was conducted to assess the protective effect of biochanin A on the gastric wall of Spraguedawley rats` stomachs.

METHODOLOGY

The experimental set included different animal groups. Specifically, four groups with gastric mucosal lesions were receiving either a) Ulcer control group treated with absolute ethanol (5 ml/kg), b) 20 mg/kg of omeprazole as reference group, c) 25 of biochanin A, d) 50 mg/kg of biochanin A. Histopathological sectioning followed by immunohistochemistry staining were undertaken to evaluate the influence of the different treatments on gastric wall mucosal layer. The gastric secretions were collected in the form of homogenate and exposed to superoxide dismutase (SOD) and nitric oxide enzyme (NO) and the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein content were measured. Ulceration and patchy haemorrhage were clearly observed by light microscopy. The morphology of the gastric wall as confirmed by immunohistochemistry and fluorescent microscopic observations, exhibited sever deformity with notable thickness, oedematous and complete loss of the mucosal coverage however the biochanin-pretreated animals, similar to the omeprazole-pretreated animals, showed less damage compared to the ulcer control group. Moreover, up-regulation of Hsp70 protein and down-regulation of Bax protein were detected in the biochanin A pre-treated groups and the gastric glandular mucosa was positively stained with Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) staining and the Leucocytes infiltration was commonly seen. Biochanin A displayed a great increase in SOD and NO levels and decreased the release of MDA.

CONCLUSIONS

This gastroprotective effect of biochanin A could be attributed to the enhancement of cellular metabolic cycles perceived as an increase in the SOD, NO activity, and decrease in the level of MDA, and also decrease in level of Bax expression and increase the Hsp70 expression level.

Protective effects of thymoquinone and melatonin on intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury

BACKGROUND/AIM

In the present study, we aimed to compare the potential protective effects of thymoquinone and melatonin by using equivalent dose, on oxidative stress-induced ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury in the intestinal tissue of rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was performed using 32 male Wistar-Albino rats (weighing 180-200 g) randomly divided into four groups: Group I, sham group; Group II, IR group; Group III, IR with melatonin group; and Group IV, IR with thymoquinone group. After laparotomy, ischemia and reperfusion were performed for 60 and 120 min, respectively, on all the groups. Intestinal tissue sections were stained using routine histological methods and examined under the light microscope. In addition, the sections were immunohistochemically stained using the TUNEL method for determination of apoptosis. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the intestinal tissue were also measured.

RESULTS

The IR group had significantly elevated tissue SOD activity, GSH-Px activity, and MDA levels compared with the sham group. Administration of thymoquinone and melatonin efficiently reduced these increases. Statistically significant number of apoptotic cells was observed in the intestinal tissue of IR group rats compared with the sham group. Treatment with thymoquinone and melatonin markedly reduced the number of apoptotic cells.

CONCLUSION

The effects of melatonin and thymoquinone on IR-induced oxidative stress in rat intestines were similar. Our findings suggest that melatonin and thymoquinone protect against IR-induced injury to intestinal tissues.

Panacea seed "Nigella": A review focusing on regenerative effects for gastric ailments

Nigella sativa (NS) or black cumin is a dark, thin, and crescent-shaped, seeded shrub belonging to the Ranunculaceae family commonly growing on Mediterranean coasts in Saudi Arabia, northern Africa and Asia. They have amazing curative and therapeutic features that make them one of the most popular, safe, non-detrimental, and cytoprotective medicinal plant that can be used for prevention and treatment of many complicated diseases. Originally, N. sativa was used to treat migraines and allergy, and researches have shown its effectiveness in destroying cancer cells as well. The gastro protective effect of NS oil and its constituents has also been reported earlier; however, the complete perception on etiology and pathogenesis of gastric ulcer is not yet clear. Herein, we attempt to unveil some of the potential mechanisms exhibited by NS in preventing problems related to gastric ulcers. Gastric ailments like ulcers and tumors are the most common disorders of the gastro-intestinal tract in the present day life of the industrialized world. Gastric ulcer being a multifaceted problem exhibits complex etiology and is the fourth most common cause of cancer mortality. Drug interactions and toxicity are the main hindrances in chemotherapy. The existing merits and demerits of modern-day drugs make us turn toward the plant kingdom which may provide a valuable resource of novel potent natural compounds for pharmaceuticals or alternately, as dietary supplements. In this context, the revered phytotherapeutic N. sativa comes as a promising savior in today’s times. This review aims to summarize, both the functional and disease-related effects in the area of gastroenterology.

Acute toxicity and gastroprotective role of M. pruriens in ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries in rats

The investigation was to evaluate gastroprotective effects of ethanolic extract of M. pruriens leaves on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries in rats. Forty-eight rats were divided into 8 groups: negative control, extract control, ulcer control, reference control, and four experimental groups. As a pretreatment, the negative control and the ulcer control groups were orally administered carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). The reference control was administered omeprazole orally (20 mg/kg). The ethanolic extract of M. pruriens leaves was given orally to the extract control group (500 mg/kg) and the experimental groups (62.5, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg). After 1 h, CMC was given orally to the negative and the extract control groups. The other groups received absolute ethanol. The rats were sacrificed after 1 h. The ulcer control group exhibited significant mucosal injuries with decreased gastric wall mucus and severe damage to the gastric mucosa. The extract caused upregulation of Hsp70 protein, downregulation of Bax protein, and intense periodic acid schiff uptake of glandular portion of stomach. Gastric mucosal homogenate showed significant antioxidant properties with increase in synthesis of PGE2, while MDA was significantly decreased. The ethanolic extract of M. pruriens leaves was nontoxic (<5 g/kg) and could enhance defensive mechanisms against hemorrhagic mucosal lesions.

Toxicity effect of nigella sativa on the liver function of rats

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to determine the toxic effect of Nigella sativa powder on the liver function which was evaluated by measuring liver enzymes and through histopathological examination of liver tissue.

METHODS

Twenty four male Sprague Dawley rats were allotted randomly to four groups including: control (taking normal diet); low dose (supplemented with 0.01 g/kg/day Nigella sativa); normal dose (supplemented with 0.1 g/kg/day Nigella sativa) and high dose (supplemented with 1 g/kg/day Nigella sativa). All of supplements administered in powder form mixed with rats' pellet for 28 days. To assess liver toxicity, liver enzymes measurement and histological study were done at the end of supplementation.

RESULTS

The finding revealed that there was no significant change in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) between treatment groups. Histopathological study showed very minimal and mild changes in fatty degeneration in normal and high doses of Nigella sativa treated group. Inflammation and necrosis were absent.

CONCLUSION

The study showed that supplementation of Nigella sativa up to the dose of 1 g/kg supplemented for a period of 28 days resulted no changes in liver enzymes level and did not cause any toxicity effect on the liver function.

Effect of Nigella sativa on the kidney function in rats

OBJECTIVES

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is an amazing herb which is used in traditional medicine for a wide range of illnesses including bronchial asthma, dysentery, gastrointestinal problems, as well as beneficial effect on blood lipids, lowering blood pressure, serum cholesterol, and triglycerides level. This study aimed to determine the toxic effect of N. sativa powder on the kidney function which was evaluated by serum urea and creatinine and through histopathological examination of kidney tissue.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In this study, 24 male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (six each). The rats were kept in the separate cage with three rats per cage. The treatment groups were given rat pellet containing N. sativa dose at 0.01, 0.10, and 1.00 g/kg body weight which were considered as low, normal, and high dose for five weeks while control group fed with rat chow pellet without supplementation. At the end of 35 days, the rats were sacrificed to take the blood sample and to remove the kidney organ for toxicity evaluation. Statistical analyses were done through one-way ANOVA using SPSS.

RESULTS

The finding revealed that there was no significant difference in serum urea of treatment groups compared with the control group. The results showed a significant decline in serum creatinine of high dose of Nigella sativa treated compared with low dose treated and control groups (p<0.05). Histopathological examination of kidney tissue showed normal kidney architecture with no tissue degeneration, inflammation, necrosis, and tubular dilation in all groups.

CONCLUSION

With the evidence of normal urea and creatinine level in blood and normal kidney tissue in histology examination for all treatment groups, it is suggested that there is no toxic effect on kidney function of Nigella sativa at different doses for five-week period.

Hadi AH, Mohd Ali H, Majid N, Abdulla MA. Acute toxicity and gastroprotection studies of a new schiff base derived copper (II) complex against ethanol-induced acute gastric lesions in rats

BACKGROUND

Copper is an essential element in various metabolisms. The investigation was carried out to evaluate acute gastroprotective effects of the Copper (II) complex against ethanol-induced superficial hemorrhagic mucosal lesions in rats.

METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Rats were divided into 7 groups. Groups 1 and 2 were orally administered with Tween 20 (10% v/v). Group 3 was orally administered with 20 mg/kg omeprazole (10% Tween 20). Groups 4-7 received 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg of the complex (10% Tween 20), respectively. Tween 20 (10% v/v) was given orally to group 1 and absolute ethanol was given orally to groups 2-7, respectively. Rats were sacrificed after 1 h. Group 2 exhibited severe superficial hemorrhagic mucosal lesions. Gastric wall mucus was significantly preserved by the pre-treatment complex. The results showed a significant increase in glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO), and Prostaglandin E2 (PGE(2)) activities and a decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Histology showed marked reduction of hemorrhagic mucosal lesions in groups 4-7. Immunohistochemical staining showed up-regulation of Hsp70 and down-regulation of Bax proteins. PAS staining of groups 4-7 showed intense stain uptake of gastric mucosa. The acute toxicity revealed the non-toxic nature of the compound.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

The gastroprotective effect of the Copper (II) complex may possibly be due to preservation of gastric wall mucus; increase in PGE(2) synthesis; GSH, SOD, and NO up-regulation of Hsp70 protein; decrease in MDA level; and down-regulation of Bax protein.

Role of Blepharis maderaspatensis and Ammannia baccifera plant extracts on in vitro oxygen radical scavenging, secretion of gastric fluid and gastroprotection on ulcer induced rats

CONTEXT

Blepharis maderaspatensis L. Roth (BM) (Acanthaceae) and Ammannia baccifera L. (AB) (Lythraceae) are used in folk medicine for various stomach disorders.

OBJECTIVE

The chloroform and ethanol extracts of both plants were evaluated for antioxidant, gastric antisecretory, and gastroprotective properties.

METHODS

Antioxidant properties of the extracts were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging assay. The gastric antisecretory properties of the extracts were assessed, at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg, using aspirin-pylorus ligation induced gastric ulcer models and the gastroprotective activity of the extracts was assessed, at a dose of 100 and 200 mg/kg, using HCl-ethanol induced ulcer models in rats.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Ethanol extract of BM (EBM) possessed good antioxidant property with IC₅₀ values of 37.4 and 44.1 µg/mL in DPPH and NO scavenging assays respectively, where 25-250 µg/mL concentration in DPPH assay and 30-300 µg/mL concentration in NO scavenging assay were used. Ethanol extract of AB (EAB) at a dose of 200 mg/kg reduced the free acidity to 142.66 mEq/L and total acidity to 451.22 mEq/L. It reduced the gastric secretion with increase in pH from 2.2 to 3.15. Possessing good antisecretory activity, it also reduced the ulcer by 92.2% in aspirin and pylorus ligation induced gastric ulcer models. EAB increased the mucus secretion and adherent mucus in the tissues with a 71.43% reduction of ulcerin HCl-ethanol induced ulcer models, at a dose of 200 mg/kg. This activity can be attributed to the various flavonoids like rutin and kaempferol-3-O-β-glucopyranoside, and the phytosterol, β-sitosterol-3-O-β-glucopyranoside, and phenolics present in the extracts.

CONCLUSION

EBM possessed significant antioxidant property while EAB possessed good antisecretory and gastroprotective activity.

Effects of Pithecellobium jiringa ethanol extract against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injuries in Sprague-Dawley rats

Current anti-gastric ulcer agents have side effects, despite the progression and expansion of advances in treatment. This study aimed to investigate the gastroprotective mechanisms of Pithecellobium jiringa ethanol extract against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal ulcers in rats. For this purpose, Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: Group 1 (normal control) rats were orally administered with vehicle (carboxymethyl cellulose), Group 2 (ulcer control) rats were also orally administered with vehicle. Group 3 (positive control) rats were orally administered with 20 mg/kg omeprazole, Groups 4 and 5 (experimental groups) received ethanol extract of Pithecellobium jiringa ethanol extract at a concentration of 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively. Sixty minutes later, vehicle was given orally to the normal control group, and absolute ethanol was given orally to the ulcer control, positive control and experimental groups to generate gastric mucosal injury. The rats were sacrificed an hour later. The effect of oral administration of plant extract on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury was studied grossly and histology. The level of lipid peroxidation, (malondialdehyde—MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and gastric wall mucus were measured from gastric mucosal homogenate. The ulcer control group exhibited severe gastric mucosal injury, and this finding was also confirmed by histology of gastric mucosa which showed severe damage to the gastric mucosa with edema and leucocyte infiltration of the submucosal layer. Pre-treatment with plant extract significantly reduced the formation of ethanol-induced gastric lesions, and gastric wall mucus was significantly preserved. The study also indicated a significant increase in SOD activity in gastric mucosal homogenate, whereas a significant decrease in MDA was observed. Acute toxicity tests did not show any signs of toxicity and mortality up to 5 g/kg. The ulcer protective effect of this plant may possibly be due to its preservation of gastric wall mucus along with increased SOD activity and reduction of oxidative stress (MDA). The extract is non-toxic, even at relatively high concentrations.

Bioassay-guided isolation of an anti-ulcer compound, tagitinin C, from Tithonia diversifolia: role of nitric oxide, prostaglandins and sulfhydryls

Tithonia diversifolia is a medicinal plant from the Municipality of Suchiapa, Chiapas, Mexico, that according to local folk medicine is considered useful in the treatment of gastric ulcers. The aim of the present study was to investigate the gastroprotective activity of T. diversifolia by using an ethanol-induced gastric ulcer experimental model in male Wistar rats. The results showed that T. diversifolia had gastroprotective activity, and that the dichloromethane extract had the highest protective activity (close to 90% when using doses between 10 to 100 mg/kg), and that further the compound tagitinin C isolated from this extract was the main active gastroprotective agent. Rats treated with tagitinin C suspended in Tween 80 at 1, 3, 10 and 30 mg/kg showed 37.7, 70.1, 100, and 100% gastroprotection, respectively. The effect elicited by tagitinin C (30 mg/kg) was not attenuated by pretreatment with either N^G-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (70 mg/kg, i.p.), a nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor, N-ethylmaleimide (10 mg/kg, s.c.), a blocker of sulfhydryl groups, or indomethacin (10 mg/kg, s.c.), a blocker of prostaglandin synthesis, which suggests that the gastroprotective mechanism of action of this sesquiterpene lactone does not involve NO, sulfhydryl groups or prostaglandins.

Cancer chemopreventive potential of volatile oil from black cumin seeds, Nigella sativa L., in a rat multi-organ carcinogenesis bioassay

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is a herbal plant of the Ranunculaceae family that has been widely used for various medicinal and nutritional purposes. Volatile oil extracts along with its major constituents, such as thymoquinone, have recently attracted considerable attention for their antioxidant, immunoprotective and antitumor properties. The present study was conducted to assess the chemopreventive potential of crude oils in N. sativa on tumor formation using a well-established rat multi-organ carcinogenesis model featuring initial treatment with five different carcinogens. Post-initiation administration of 1000 or 4000 ppm N. sativa volatile oil in the diet of male Wistar rats for 30 weeks significantly reduced malignant and benign colon tumor sizes, incidences and multiplicities. The treatment also significantly decreased the incidences and multiplicities of tumors in the lungs and in different parts of the alimentary canal, particularly the esophagus and forestomach. Bromodeoxyuridine labeling indices, reflecting cell proliferation were significantly decreased in various organs and lesions after treatment with the two doses of N. sativa. The plasma levels of insulin growth factor, triglycerides and prostaglandin E2 were also altered. The findings show, for the first time, that N. sativa administration exerts potent inhibitory effects on rat tumor development and on cellular proliferation in multiple organ sites. In particular, the ability to significantly inhibit murine colon, lung, esophageal and forestomach tumors was demonstrated in the post-initiation phase, with no evidence of clinical side effects. The mechanisms are likely to be related to suppression of cell proliferation.

Comparative study of Nigella Sativa and triple therapy in eradication of Helicobacter Pylori in patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia

BACKGROUND/AIM

A large number of diseases are ascribed to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), particularly chronic active gastritis, peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer. Successful treatment of H. pylori infection with antimicrobial agents can lead to regression of H. pylori-associated disorders. Antibiotic resistance against H. pylori is increasing, and it is necessary to find new effective agents. Nigella sativa seed (NS), a commonly used herb, possesses in vitro anti-helicobacter activity. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of NS in eradication of H. pylori infection in non-ulcer dyspeptic patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted on 88 adult patients attending King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia, from 2007 to 2008, with dyspeptic symptoms and found positive for H. pylori infection by histopathology and urease test. Patients were randomly assigned to four groups, receiving i) triple therapy (TT) comprising of clarithromycin, amoxicillin, omeprazole [n= 23], ii) 1 g NS + 40 mg omeprazole (OM) [n= 21], iii) 2 g NS + OM [n= 21] or iv) 3 g NS + OM [n= 23]. Negative H. pylori stool antigen test four weeks after end of treatment was considered as eradication.

RESULTS

H. pylori eradication was 82.6, 47.6, 66.7 and 47.8% with TT, 1 g NS, 2 g NS and 3 g NS, respectively. Eradication rates with 2 g NS and TT were statistically not different from each other, whereas H. pylori eradication with other doses was significantly less than that with TT (P < 0.05). Dyspepsia symptoms improved in all groups to a similar extent.

CONCLUSIONS

N. sativa seeds possess clinically useful anti-H. pylori activity, comparable to triple therapy. Further clinical studies combining N. sativa with antibiotics are suggested.

Spices, herbal xenobiotics and the stomach: Friends or foes?

Spices and herbal remedies have been used since ancient times to treat a variety of disorders. It has been experimentally demonstrated that spices, herbs, and their extracts possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, lipid-lowering, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antimutagenic and anticancer activities, besides their gastroprotective and anti-ulcer activities. Despite a number of reports on the toxicity of herbs and spices, they are generally accepted as safer alternatives to conventional therapy against gastric ulcers. To this end, it is also believed, that excessive consumption of spices may favor the pathogenesis of gastric and duodenal ulcer and some studies have substantiated this common perception. Based on various in vivo experiments and clinical studies, on the effects of spices and herbs on gastric ulcers, it has indeed been shown that certain spices do possess remarkable anti-ulcer properties mediated by antisecretory, cytoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-Helicobacter pylori effects and mechanisms regulated by nitric oxide, prostaglandins, non-protein sulfhydryl molecules and epidermal growth factor expression. Accordingly, their consumption may attenuate and help prevent peptic ulcer disease. In the present review, the beneficial effects of spices and herbal nutritive components on the gastric mucosa are discussed against the paradigm of their deleterious potential.

The effects of Nigella sativa on bile duct ligation induced-liver injury in rats

Nigella sativa (NS) has been shown to have antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities in different conditions. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effects of NS on cholestatic liver injury in rats. Thirty rats were recruited in the study as follows: Group 1, Bile duct ligation (BDL) (n = 10); Group 2, BDL plus NS (n = 10); and Group 3, Sham (n = 10). Bile duct ligated group received 0.2 mL kg(-1) dose of NS intraperitoneally daily throughout 14 days. Liver damage and cholestasis were determined by the biochemical and the pathologic examination. Data showed a decrease in gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities of the NS treated rats when compared with BDL group (p < 0.001 for GGT and p < 0.05 for others). The NS treated rats' tissue levels of total oxidant status (TOS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were significantly lower than that of the BDL group (p < 0.01 for all). Increases in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and catalase (CAT) levels were statistically significant in the NS treated rats compared to BDL group (p < 0.01 for both). On the other hand, administration of NS in the rats with biliary obstruction resulted in inhibition of necro-inflammation. These results indicate that NS exerts a therapeutic effect on cholestatic liver injury in bile duct ligated rats possibly through attenuation of enhanced neutrophil infiltration and oxidative stress in the liver tissue.