Evaluation of the antidiarrheal activity of dichloromethane-methanol crude extract of the aerial parts of Croton kinondoensis (Euphorbiaceae) in Mice.

BACKGROUND: Diarrhea remains a major global health concern, particularly in developing countries. Resistance to conventional antibiotics underscores the need for effective, plant-based alternatives. Croton kinondoensis, a traditional Kenyan remedy for gastrointestinal ailments, has yet to be scientifically validated. This study assessed its antidiarrheal and antimotility effects in vivo mouse models. METHODS: Leaf extracts were prepared using dichloromethane/methanol (1:1). Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids and phenolics. Acute toxicity was assessed via OECD guideline 425. Antidiarrheal activity was tested using a castor oil-induced diarrhea model, and gastrointestinal motility was evaluated using the charcoal meal test. Mice were divided into five groups (n = 6): negative control (distilled water), positive control (loperamide 3 mg/kg), and three test groups receiving C. kinondoensis extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Statistical significance was determined using ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test to determine significance (p < 0.05). RESULTS: The extract showed no toxicity at 2000 mg/kg. In the castor oil-induced diarrhea model, the C. kinondoensis extract at 400 mg/kg inhibited diarrhea by 25.57% (p < 0.05), compared to 71.43% inhibition by loperamide (p < 0.001) e. The charcoal meal transit test, 400 mg/kg of the extract reduced intestinal transit by 27.98% (p < 0.01), compared to 33.43% by loperamide (p < 0.001. CONCLUSION: C. kinondoensis exhibits dose-dependent antidiarrheal and antimotility effects, supporting its traditional use. Although its efficacy was lower than loperamide, the extract demonstrated significant potential as a natural remedy for diarrhea.