Anti-Diarrhoeal, Antispasmodic and Phytochemical Properties of Ethanol Extract of the Leaves of Ficus Exasperate

Aim - Ficus exasperata has been claimed to have medicinal and ethnopharmacological properties. The people of Efik in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria used it to manage frequent stooling. This study is therefore aimed at determining this claim using the leaves of Ficus exasperata which will also serve as criteria to recommend the ethno pharmacological uses of the plant.

Methodology - The leaves were dried, powdered and extracted with ethanol for 48hrs at room temperature with constant shaking using mechanical shaker. This was concentrated using rotary evaporator. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloid, steroids, tannins, flavonoids, saponins and glycoside. Antidiarrhea activity of the extract was carried out which was compared to a standard drug (loperamide) using castor oil to induce diarrhoea. Antispasmodic activity of the extract was also carried out which was compared with a standard drug using charcoal meal test.

Result - Ficus exasperata decreases bowel's movement and controls diarrhoea in experimental rats when compared with standard drugs using standard experimental procedures.

Conclusion - The leaves of Ficus exasperata exhibit, antispasmodic and antidiarrhea properties.