Abstract:
This study evaluated guava leaves for the antibacterial,
spasmolytic and anti-motility properties on three experimental models.
Guava leaves were extracted with methanol at 60%, 70% and 80%
concentrations. Disc diffusion assay was used to test the antibacterial
property of the extracts on Bacillus cereus. All the extracts exhibited
zones of inhibition ranging from 1.3-1.6 cm (P < 0.05 and 0.01). The 70%
concentration extract exhibited the widest zone of inhibition among the
three guava extracts. Two other experimental models on diarrhea in mice
were used to test the anti-motility and anti-propulsive/ spasmolytic
property of the orally administered guava extracts. The amount and
frequency of defecation in the treated mice was accomplished through
castor oil-induction of diarrhea. Results showed that there was reduction
in the fecal output in the group treated with the guava extracts. Antimotility
testing accomplished through charcoal tracing method showed a
decrease in the percent distance travelled (PDT) by the charcoal solution
on the three extracts, 80% with the smallest PDT of 57.53% or 34.18%
reduction compared to the control group, NSS. The results confirmed the
potential, yet inexpensive use of the guava extracts as anti-diarrheal
agents.
