ISSN (Online) : 2277-4572
Author(s): Ndukui James Gakunga*, Larry Fred Sembajwe, Kateregga John and Vudriko Patrick
The study was conducted to validate the anti diarrheal activity of ethanolic fresh root bark extract of Mondia whitei using white albino rats. We also determined the acute toxicity and phytochemical composition of the extract. The study was carried out in May, 2013. The ethanolic extract of root bark of Mondia whitei was evaluated for castor oil induced diarrhea, as well as Transit time and enteropooling activity in wistar Albino rats. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity were also determined. Each treatment group of the respective doses used contained six study animals. Doses of 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg body weight were used in the respective experimental set-up groups with loperamide and atropine sulphate used as positive control while normal saline was used as negative control in all study set ups. The ethanolic fresh root bark extracts of Mondia whitei showed strong presence of saponins, phenols, alkaloids and tannins which are known to have antidiarrheal activity. The study revealed statistically significant (p < 0.05), dose-dependent anti diarrheal and enteropooling activity, but also reduced transit distance, with the dose of 600 mg/kg being highly significant (p < 0.001) as compared to the other treatment groups. The mean lethal dose (LD50) was above 5000 mg/kg in mice. The study showed that the ethanolic fresh root bark extract of Mondia whitei has antidiarrheal activity and it’s safe for use, thus corroborates with its traditional use. The anti-diarrheal action may be linked partly to direct inhibitory effect of the extract on the propulsive movement of the gastrointestinal tract smooth muscle, increased electrolytes and fluid absorption and infiltration in the tissue.
