The Promising Therapeutic Effects of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) on
Gastric Ulcers: A Comprehensive Review on Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory
Properties and Molecular Mechanisms
Abstract
Peptic ulcer disease is a common gastrointestinal disorder. The current
treatment for gastric ulcers (GUs) is pharmacological interventions
including antacids, mucosal defensive agents, H2-receptor blockers,
proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) as well as antibiotics targeting H. pylori
infections. Additionally, there has been an increasing focus on the
application of natural treatments, such as pomegranate extracts, which
have significant potential in the prevention and management of GUs. The
therapeutic effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum) on GUs
include its ability to inhibit ulcer formation, reduce gastric acidity,
and promote the healing of gastric mucosal lesions. This is attributed
to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties of
the active constituents in pomegranate such as polyphenols, flavonoids,
tannins, and anthocyanins. The results of this study showed that
pomegranate extracts could significantly suppress gastric ulceration,
reduce tissue lipid peroxidation, and enhance the levels of
antioxidative enzymes. Pomegranate exerts its anti-inflammatory effects
through the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine synthesis,
including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Additionally, pomegranate extracts
increase the production of gastric mucosal protective factors such as
PGE2 and NO, and have antimicrobial activity against H. pylori. Overall,
while pomegranate showed promise as a natural remedy for the prevention
and management of GUs, further research is needed to optimize its
therapeutic efficacy.