Potential Role of Laurus nobilis Essential Oil in Reducing Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the gastroprotective effects of Laurus nobilis leaves essential oil (LANO) against indomethacin (INDO)-induced gastric ulcers in rats. Materials and Methods: In this study, an indomethacin-induced gastric ulcer model was employed. 30 Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=6): Control, LANO, INDO, INDO with famotidine (FAM), and INDO with LANO. Indomethacin (25 mg/kg) induced ulcers, while LANO and FAM were administered by oral gavage at 200 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg, respectively. Gastric tissues underwent histopathological examination for ulceration, and biochemical assays measured total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant status (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI), and nitric oxide (NO) levels. Results: Compared to the INDO group, treatment with LANO significantly decreased the number of gastric ulcer foci. Biochemically, LANO moderated TOS and OSI levels and preserved TAS, indicating reduced oxidative stress. Additionally, LANO appeared to stabilize NO levels. These biochemical findings were corroborated by histopathological examination. Conclusions: The study's results indicate that LANO may be beneficial in protecting against NSAID-induced gastric damage. LANO's observed modulation of oxidative stress markers and NO levels suggests its potential role in managing gastric ulcers.