Abstract

Sea buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides L.) pulp oils (SBPO) were evaluated for its effect on gastric secretory function, gastric emptying and analgesic activity, as a potential treatment for stomach discomfort and gastric ulcers. The actions of SBPO on gastric acid, pepsin and mucus secretions were studied in Shay rats. SBPO, when administered for 7 days at the dose of 3.5 and 7.0 ml/kg, caused a significant decrease in gastric volume, total acidity and pepsin output. There was also a significant increase in gastric mucus production. Gastric emptying was studied using a carboxymethyl cellulose solution as a non-nutrient meal in mice. SBPO caused a significant decrease in gastric emptying. The antinociceptive effect was evaluated using the acetic acid induced writhing test. SBPO significantly inhibited the number of writhing responses. These results suggest effectiveness of SBPO in stomach discomfort and gastric ulcers.

Key words: Hippophaë rhamnoides, Sea buckthorn pulp oil, gastric secretion, gastric emptying, antinociceptive effect.