A lyophilized aqueous extract of Maytenus ilicifolia leaves inhibits histamine-mediated acid secretion in isolated frog gastric mucosa.

Lyophilized aqueous extract of Maytenus ilicifolia leaves (LAEMIL) is commonly used in Brazilian folk medicine in the treatment of dyspepsia as well as gastric ulcers. We have investigated the effect and the possible mechanism of action of the LAEMIL on acid secretion in isolated frog gastric mucosa incubated in an Ussing chamber. It was observed that LAEMIL (7-28 mg%) as well as cimetidine (125-4,000 microM), a well-known histamine H2 receptor antagonist, decreased basal acid secretion in a concentration-dependent manner.