Quantitative assessment of acid-neutralizing capacity in antibacterial and antiulcer herbal drugs

Abstract

Background: Peptic ulcers and gastric acidity are prevalent gastrointestinal disorders. Although over-the-counter
antacids provide temporary relief, their long-term use is associated with significant side effects, leading to increased
interest in safer, herbal alternatives. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the acid-neutralizing capacity (ANC)
of selected herbal drugs with known antibacterial and antiulcer properties, and compare them with commercially
available antacid formulations. Methods: Twenty herbal samples and one commercial antacid (Gelusil) were
analyzed for their ANC using a standardized back-titration method. The ANC was calculated by measuring the
moles of hydrochloric acid neutralized per gram of sample. Results: Commercial antacid Gelusil exhibited ANC
value of 1.48 mEq/g. Among herbal drugs, Acacia arabica (0.54 mEq/g), Terminalia chebula (0.46 mEq/g), and
Aloe barbadensis (0.35 mEq/g) demonstrated relatively higher acid-neutralizing potential. Conclusion: Several
herbal drugs showed promising ANC values, suggesting their potential as natural alternatives to synthetic antacids.
Further studies on formulation, safety, and clinical efficacy are recommended to validate their therapeutic use.