In-vivo antidiarrheal activity of aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts of Anacardium occidentale and Khaya senegalensis used in Benin (West Africa) in a castor oil-induced diarrhea model traditionally.

BACKGROUND

The management of diarrheal diseases involves the use of medicinal plants, particularly in developing countries, where access to conventional treatments remains limited.

METHODS

The study evaluated the in-vivo antidiarrheal activity of aqueous and hydroethanolic extracts of Khaya senegalensis stem bark and Anacardium occidentale leaves using castor oil induced diarrhea model in male Wistar rats.

RESULTS

The hydroethanolic extracts of both plants studied delayed the onset of diarrhea, reduced stool frequency, decreased stool water content, and lowered the purgation index. Particularly, the hydroethanolic extract of Khaya senegalensis at 200 mg/kg showed effects similar to Loperamide for certain specific parameters, including the percentage of diarrhea inhibition. However, no reduction in fecal weight was observed. The extracts also showed antioxidant activity associated with their polyphenol and tannin contents.

CONCLUSION

These findings support the traditional use of Khaya senegalensis and Anacardium occidentale as an antidiarrheal protective effects may involve modulation of intestinal secretion, motility and oxidative stress. This study provides preliminary experimental evidence supporting the therapeutic potential of these botanical drugs, although further mechanistic investigations are required.