EFFECT OF LEMON JUICE (CITRUS LIMON) ON MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN ETHANOL-INDUCED GASTRIC ULCER HEALING IN MALE WISTAR RATS
Abstract
Gastric ulcers are a common gastrointestinal disorder caused by an imbalance between aggressive
factors such as gastric acid and ethanol-induced oxidative stress, and protective mechanisms
including mucus secretion and antioxidant defense. This study investigated the effect of Citrus
limon (lemon) juice on morphological and biochemical changes in ethanol-induced gastric ulcers
in male Wistar rats. Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into six groups: normal
control, negative control (ethanol-induced ulcer), three treatment groups receiving graded doses
of lemon juice (2, 4, and 6 mL/kg), and a positive control group treated with omeprazole (20
mg/kg). Gastric ulcer indices, gross morphology, histopathological changes, gastric pH, and
oxidative stress markers—including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD),
catalase (CAT), and reduced glutathione (GSH)—were evaluated.
Ethanol administration caused significant gastric mucosal injury, as evidenced by high ulcer
indices, hemorrhagic lesions, epithelial necrosis, and increased oxidative stress. Lemon juice
treatment significantly reduced ulcer indices in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest dose
demonstrating effects comparable to omeprazole. Histological analysis revealed progressive
restoration of epithelial lining, reduced inflammatory infiltration, and preservation of gastric
glands in lemon juice-treated rats. Additionally, lemon juice significantly decreased MDA levels
and restored antioxidant enzyme activities, indicating its potent antioxidative and cytoprotective
effects.
These findings demonstrate that Citrus limon juice promotes gastric ulcer healing by mitigating
oxidative damage, enhancing antioxidant defenses, and restoring mucosal integrity. The study
provides scientific evidence supporting the traditional use of lemon juice for gastrointestinal health
and suggests its potential as a natural, cost-effective therapy for gastric ulcer management.
Keywords: Citrus limon, gastric ulcer, ethanol-induced, Wistar rats, antioxidant, mucosal healing
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