Phytochemical Screening and Anti-diarrheal Activity of the Pulp and Seed Extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana in Rats

Abstract

In the present study, attempt was made to evaluate the phytochemical composition and anti-diarrheal activity of the seed and pulp extract of Ziziphus mauritania. The anti-diarrheal activity of the crude seed and pulp were evaluated using castor oil induced diarrheal model, charcoal meal test and anti-fluid accumulation test in rats. The result of phytochemical test indicated that tannins, flavonoids, saponin, cyanogenic glycosides, and terpenoids were present in both seed and pulp. In the castor oil induced model both the seed and pulp extract significantly prolonged diarrheal onset was observed in treated rats compared to the negative control. Similarly, in the fluid accumulation test, the extract of the seed and pulp produced a significant decline in volume of intestinal contents. Results from the charcoal meal test revealed that all the extract produced a significant anti-motility effect. Based on the findings of this work, the pulp extract of this plant possess anti-diarrheal properties and validates its use in traditional medicine for the treatment of diarrhea.