Quercus ilex: a potential natural remedy for ulcers

Holm oak (Quercus ilex), used in phytotherapy for its astringent and antiseptic properties, was studied for its gastroprotective potential. The aqueous extract (EAQI) was found to be rich in phenolic compounds, with marked antioxidant activity, confirmed by HPLC, which identified several phenolic acids and flavonoids (gallic acid, quercetin, catechin, etc.).In vivo, ethanol (4 g/kg) induced gastric and duodenal lesions associated with oxidative stress (↑MDA, ↓SOD, CAT, GPx). Pretreatment with EAQI (100-400 mg/kg) corrected morphological and biochemical alterations in a dose-dependent manner, with superior efficacy to famotidine.These results suggest the strong anti-ulcer and antioxidant potential of Quercus ilex.