The results of our study provide
additional support for the traditional use of
this plant as a gastric antiulcer drug.
The root extract of P. pilifera has
antioxidant activity and gastroprotective
effects on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers.
The cytoprotective and antioxidant
properties of the extract are due to the
presence of one, or a combination of
bioactive compounds in the root. This finding
could lead to the further isolation and
pharmacological study of new therapeutic
compounds against ulcers. Therefore, further
studies are required to investigate the active
compounds and the mechanisms of action
of P. pilifera extract.