Ariyo, Oluyinka Christopher2026-09-252026-09-252026-06-122784-0379https://repository.iuls.ro/handle/20.500.12811/7033Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) results from an imbalance between gastric mucosal defence mechanisms and aggressive factors. Although modern anti-ulcer drugs are available, many rural communities in Nigeria continue to rely on traditional medicinal plants for ulcer management. This study documented the diversity and ethnomedicinal relevance of plants used for the treatment of PUD in Igabi Local Government Area (LGA), Kaduna State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 110 respondents, comprising 36 traditional herbalists and 74 herb sellers selected through random sampling from 4 villages and major commercial centres within the LGA. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and analysed using descriptive statistics, frequency of occurrence (FO), and fidelity level (FL) to determine the cultural significance of each species. A total of 22 plant species belonging to 17 families were recorded, with Fabaceae (subfamilies Mimosoideae and Papilionoideae) being the most represented family. Ocimum gratissimum (FO: 45; FL: 40.91%), Bryophyllum pinnatum (FO: 40; FL: 36.36%), and Carica papaya (FO: 39; FL: 35.45%) were the most frequently cited species. Leaves (40.91%) and seeds (22.73%) were the most commonly used plant parts, while grinding (33.33%) and decoction (20.83%) were the predominant preparation methods. Oral administration through drinking (54.55%) and eating (40.91%) was the most common route of administration. High FLs indicate strong traditional consensus regarding the therapeutic value of several species. These plants may serve as promising sources of novel gastroprotective compounds. Further pharmacological studies, including bioassay-guided fractionation, metabolite characterisation, and in vivo validation, are recommended to substantiate their anti-ulcer potential and support future drug development.EnglishAttribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0ethnobotanyherbalistsherb sellersmedicinal plantspeptic ulcerPUDdefence mechanismsArticle2784-0360https://doi.org/10.46909/alse-591207