Gastric Mucosal Protective Effects of in a Rat Model of Ethanol-Induced Gastric Injury

(cassia) is a tropical aromatic evergreen tree of the Lauraceae family well known for its fragrance and spicy flavor and widely used in Asian traditional medicine. It has recently garnered attention for its diverse potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties. However, the gastroprotective effect of , particularly against ethanol-induced gastric damage, remains unclear. We investigated the potential gastroprotective property of and the underlying mechanisms of action in a rat model of ethanol-induced gastric injury. To assess its effectiveness, rats were fed for a 14-day period prior to inducing gastric damage by oral administration of ethanol. Our results indicated that pre-treatment with mitigated ethanol-induced gastric mucosal lesions and bleeding. Reduced gastric acid secretion and expression of acid secretion-linked receptors were also observed. Additionally, pretreatment with led to decreased levels of inflammatory factors, including TNF-α, p-p65, and IκBα. Notably, upregulated the expressions of HO1 and HSP90, with particular emphasis on the enhanced expression of PAS and MUC, the crucial gastric mucosa defense molecules. These findings suggest that has protective effects on the gastric mucosa and can effectively reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.