Abstract

Hope Morris Nchekwube Ifebi*, Ifeoma Judith Oguejiofor, Charity Chinasa Ezea, Cyril Onyeka Ogbue, Chinenye Henrietta Nedum and Felix Ahamefule Onyegbule

ABSTRACT

Background: This study was designed to evaluate the pharmacognostic standardization and antidiarrhea effect of Nelsonia canescence plant. However, its antidiarrhea activity of has not been scientifically evaluated, hence this study. Methods: Fresh leaves was collected, dried, powdered and subjected to macroscopic and microscopic analysis. The plant material was cold-macerated in ethanol, the extract was fractionated using liquid-liquid partitioning to obtain n-hexane, ethyl acetate and butanol fractions. Pharmacognostic profile, phytochemical analyses, and acute toxicity were determined using standard procedure. The antidiarrheal activity and gastrointestinal motility study of the ethanol extract and fractions were evaluated using standard procedures. Results: Microscopic examination revealed the presence of diacytic stomata, prisms of calcium oxalate crystal, unicellular trichomes. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, proteins, tannins and carbohydrates. The leaves were found to be dark green with acute apex, reticulate veination, bitter taste and pungent smell. Proximate analysis N. canescense revealed moisture content of 7.3 %, ash value of 19.5 %. The LD50 value was found to be greater than 5000mg/kg. N. canescens was established to have a significant antidiarrhea effect. At the dose of 50, 100 and 250 mg/kg, the crude extract showed a significant antidiarrhea activity with percentage inhibition of 53.4, 76.4 and 73.2% respectively. The fractions showed a significant antidiarrhea activity with 100 and 250mg/kg ethylacetate showing extremely significant (P