Honey Protects Against Acidified Aspirin-Induced Gastric Mucosal Damage in Rats

Abstract

The protective effect of natural honey against acute gastric mucosal lesions induced by acidified aspirin was studied in rats.  Honey was mixed with saline and given by gavage as a pretreatment in varying doses.  A dose-dependent reduction in the number of acute mucosal lesions was observed with administration of honey.  Honey also reduced the volume and acidity of gastric juice secreted over 4 hours in conscious pylorus-ligated rats.  It is suggested that honey may protect the gastric mucosa by its inhibition of gastric acid secretion, apart from its antibacterial effect against Helicobacter pylori.  It may therefore be useful in the orevention of ulceration and ulcer recurrence, as well as in the management of the disease.