Gastric ulcer is a common digestive disorder. Herbal medicines can effectively treat gastric ulcers in humans and various animal models. The efficacy of herbal medicines is comparable or superior to drugs such as omeprazole or cimetidine, and herbal medicines display fewer adverse effects. The mechanisms by which herbal medicines benefit gastric ulcer include stimulation of mucous cell proliferation, anti-oxidation, and inhibition of gastric acid secretion as well as H(+)/K(+)-ATPase activity. Some herbal medicines also exhibit antimicrobial properties. Utilization of herbal medicines could be a valuable alternative to treat gastric ulcer in humans effectively, with few adverse effects.