Anti-Diarrheal Evaluation of Psidium, guajava Leaf Extracts

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.