Boswellia serrata dry extract with intestinal anti-inflammatory properties also accelerates gastric ulcer healing in rats

Boswellia serrata is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat inflammatory conditions and this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of B. serrata dry extract (BSDE) in treating gastric ulcers and ulcerative colitis. Chronic gastric ulcers were induced using 80% acetic acid. For seven days, rats were given oral doses of BSDE (30, 100, or 300 mg/kg), omeprazole (40 mg/kg), or vehicle. Ulcer area, mucin content, and biochemical indicators (GSH, SOD, CAT, GST, MPO, MDA) were evaluated. The rectal administration of 8% acetic acid produced ulcerative colitis. BSDE (100 or 300 mg/kg), dexamethasone (2 mg/kg), or vehicle were given three days before and after colitis induction. Colonic damage was assessed macroscopically and microscopically, as well as mucin production and indicators of oxidative stress. Finally, computational investigations were carried out to identify potential pharmacological targets. BSDE was analyzed using ESI-MS, revealing the presence of six compounds, including α-boswellic acid and keto-boswellic acid. In the gastric ulcer model, oral administration of BSDE for seven days accelerated the ulcer healing, with the 100 mg/kg dose being the most effective. BSDE enhanced gastric mucin content and reduced oxidative stress. In the colitis model, BSDE reduced macroscopic damage, preserved crypt architecture, and decreased inflammatory infiltration. Computational investigations identified potential pharmacological targets for BSDE constituents, including COX-1 and 2, and iNOS. BSDE also demonstrated good ADME features and a favorable toxicity profile. The results suggest that BSDE exerts gastroprotective and intestinal anti-inflammatory effects through antioxidant and mucosal protective mechanisms. These findings support the traditional use of B. serrata as a viable therapeutic option for gastrointestinal diseases, highlighting its potential as a phytotherapeutic agent.