The aim of this research is to determine the antiulcer properties and percentage protection of
Hibiscus cannabinus and Hibiscus sabdariffa seed samples towards ulcer-induced Sprague
dawley rats. Rats were divided into six groups each for each ulceration method and fed with
distilled water, Omeprazole, H. cannabinus seed oil (HCSO), H. cannabinus seed extract
(HCSE), H. sabdariffa seed oil (HSSO) and H. sabdariffa seed extract (HSSE), respectively
via oral administration. Among the two plants tested, H. cannabinus showed the best protection
percentage towards ethanol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cold restrain
stress induced ulcers. H. cannabinus seed extract (HSSE) exhibited an exceptionally high ulcer
protection of 74.98 ± 0.78% against NSAIDs induced ulcer. The gastric lesions were controlled
primarily by both mucosal protection and acid inhibition. In conclusion, addition of these seeds
to the daily diet may reduce free radical activity in the body and reduce the risk of developing
peptic ulcer disease.
In order to overcome the stability problems of oils and fats, synthetic antioxidants such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and tert-butyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) have widespread use as food additives in many countries. Recent reports reveal that these compounds may be implicated in many health risks, including cancer and carcinogenesis. Hence, there is a move towards the use of natural antioxidants of plant origin to replace these synthetic antioxidants.