Antigastric Ulcer Studies on ‘Saffron’ Crocus sativus L. in Rats

Saffron, Crocus sativus Linn. (Family Iridaceae) commonly known as Zaa'fran is used as a flavoring agent and an important ingredient of Arabic coffee (Gahwa). It is also used in many gastric ailments. An aqueous suspension of saffron was subjected for evaluating gastric antiulcer activity induced by pylorus ligation (Shay rats), indomethacin and various necrotizing agents including (80% ethanol, 0.2 M NaOH and 25% NaCl) in rats. Gastric wall mucus and non-protein sulfhydryl contents were also estimated in rats. Histopathological assessment of rat stomach was carried out. The saffron aqueous suspension at doses (250 and 500 mg kg 1 ) exhibited decrease in basal gastric secretion and ulcer index in Shay rats and indomethacin treated groups. Gastric wall mucus elevation was observed. No significant histopathological changes were noted. A large margin of safety was observed in animals after acute and chronic treatment.) Saffron exhibited significant antisecretory and antiulcer activities without causing any deleterious effects on acute and chronic toxicity in rodents.