Vol. 14, Issue 6 (2025)

Author(s):
Johnny II, Asuqwo E, Enema OJ, Etti IC and Udo IJ

Abstract:
Peptic ulcer disease remains a widespread gastrointestinal disorder caused by an imbalance between aggressive factors like acid secretion and weakened mucosal defenses, often exacerbated by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and alcohol. Conventional therapies carry the risk of side effects or ulcer recurrence, prompting increased interest in safe, plant-based alternatives. This study evaluated the acute toxicity and anti-ulcer activity of two polyherbal formulations, Nonivite and Nonilixir, comprising extracts of Morinda citrifolia, Phoenix dactylifera, Annona muricata, Syzygium aromaticum, and other botanicals. Acute oral toxicity was assessed using a modified Lorke’s method, and no mortality or adverse behavioral signs were observed in mice up to the highest tested dose of 10,000 mg/kg, indicating a high safety profile. Anti-ulcer effects were investigated using ethanol-induced and indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer models in albino rats. Pretreatment with Nonivite and Nonilixir syrups at 500, 1000, and 1500 mg/kg significantly reduced ulcer indices in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.001). In the ethanol model, Nonivite reduced the ulcer index from 5.0 ± 0.00 in the control to 1.8 ± 0.223 at 1500 mg/kg, achieving 64% protection, while Nonilixir reduced it to 1.6 ± 0.273, with 68% protection. In the indomethacin model, both formulations showed 68% protection at 1500 mg/kg, compared to 72% for cimetidine (100 mg/kg). Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed bioactive constituents including n-decanoic acid (48.9%), octanoic acid (9.8%), and pentanoic acid derivatives, which are known for their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These findings support the potent gastroprotective effect of Nonivite and Nonilixir syrups and justify their ethnomedical use in managing gastric ulcers.