PHENOLIC-RICH EXTRACT OF CURCUMA LONGA L. MITIGATES ETHANOL-INDUCED GASTRIC TOXICITY VIA ANTIOXIDANT DEFENSE RESTORATION

Excessive alcohol consumption is a major cause of gastric mucosal injury, primarily mediated by oxidative stress, inflammation, and disruption of gastric acid balance. Although proton pump inhibitors and H₂-receptor antagonists are standard treatments, their long-term use is associated with adverse effects and high costs, necessitating safer and more affordable alternatives. Curcuma longa, a medicinal plant rich in phenolic compounds, has been traditionally used for gastrointestinal disorders. This study evaluated its gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric toxicity in rats. Ethanolic extract of Curcuma longa was prepared and analyzed for total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Thirty rats were divided into six groups: control, ethanol control, extract-treated groups (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg), and omeprazole (20 mg/kg). Following ethanol administration, gastric parameters, oxidative stress biomarkers [malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)], and histopathological changes were evaluated. The extract showed concentration-dependent increases in TPC (4.61 ± 0.57 mg GAE/g) and TAC (1.32 ± 0.09 mg AAE/g). Ethanol significantly increased ulcer index, gastric acidity, and MDA levels while reducing antioxidant enzymes. Treatment with Curcuma longa provided dose-dependent protection, with the 1000 mg/kg dose showing the highest ulcer inhibition (63.7%), restoration of gastric pH, reduced lipid peroxidation, and increased GSH, SOD, and CAT activities, comparable to omeprazole. Histological findings confirmed reduced mucosal damage. These results suggest that Curcuma longa exerts gastroprotective effects through antioxidant activity, modulation of gastric acidity, and preservation of mucosal integrity, supporting its potential as a cost-effective therapeutic option in gastric ulcer management.