Formulation And Evaluation of Herbal Antiulcer Churna Enriched with Vitamin B9

Peptic ulcer is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders affecting a large population worldwide. It is mainly caused by an imbalance between aggressive factors such as gastric acid secretion, pepsin, stress, Helicobacter pylori infection, smoking, alcohol consumption, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and the defensive mechanisms of the gastric mucosa. Common symptoms of peptic ulcer include abdominal pain, burning sensation, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and indigestion. Although conventional antiulcer drugs such as antacids, H2-receptor antagonists, and proton pump inhibitors are commonly used for treatment, prolonged use of these medications may lead to adverse effects, recurrence, and increased treatment cost. Therefore, there is a growing interest in the use of herbal medicines as safer, economical, and more effective alternatives for ulcer management.The present research work focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal antiulcer churna enriched with Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid). The formulation contains medicinal herbs such as Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller), Spinach (Spinacia oleracea), Glycyrrhiza glabra (Yashtimadhu), and Sanuf (Foeniculum vulgare). Tulsi possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities that help protect the gastric mucosa from damage. Aloe vera exhibits soothing and wound-healing properties that promote regeneration of damaged gastric tissue. Glycyrrhiza glabra acts as a potent gastroprotective and antiulcer agent by increasing mucus secretion and reducing gastric irritation. Sanuf helps improve digestion, reduces acidity, and provides carminative action. Spinach serves as a natural source of Vitamin B9, which supports cell regeneration, tissue repair, and faster healing of ulcerated mucosa.The herbal ingredients were dried, powdered separately, sieved, and mixed in suitable proportions to prepare the churna formulation. The prepared churna was evaluated for variousphysicochemical parameters including organoleptic characteristics, particle size, bulk density, angle of repose, moisture content, ash value, extractive value, pH determination, and stability studies. These evaluation tests help determine the quality, purity, stability, and acceptability of the formulation.The developed herbal antiulcer churna is expected to provide effective gastric protection, reduce ulcer formation, and enhance healing of gastric mucosa with minimal side effects. The presence of natural Vitamin B9 may further improve tissue regeneration and recovery. Therefore, this study may contribute to the development of a safe, economical, and patient-friendly herbal formulation for the management of peptic ulcer disease.