Effects of the flavonoid fraction of Bidens aurea (Aiton) Sherff on gastric ulceration induced by restraint and cold were studied in rats. Mucosal damage was evaluated histomorphometrically and the results were compared with those of omeprazole and ranitidine. The effects of these agents on the quantity and quality of the gastric mucus were also determined histologically and biochemically. Oral treatment with the ether fraction of the flavonoid extract gave the highest level of gastric protection. Mucus content was increased and accompanied by a proportional increase in proteins and hexosamines. There was also a marked increase of the periodic acid-Shiff (PAS) area (neutral glycoprotein) and the alcian blue (AB) area (sulphated glycoprotein). The groups which received ranitidine and omeprazole did not overcome the inhibition of the mucus secretion induced in this experimental model.