Effect of Extracts of Zingiberaceae Herbs on Gastric Secretion in Rabbits

Abstract

Some of the Zingiberaceae herbs are known to be useful as stomachics. Water extracts and methanol extracts of eight such herbs were examined in intact unanesthetized rabbits for their effect n gastric secretion. Oral administration of either water extratcs or methanol extracts caused a significant decrease in gastric secretion. A significant effect of these extracts appeared at 3h after administration. The effect of water extracts on gastric secretion was very similar to that of cimetidine, with a significant decrease in acid output. The effect of the methanol extracts was primarily observed as decreased pepsin output.