The anti-diarrheal and anti-inflammatory effects of hydroethanol extracts of ripe Annona muricata fruit pulp in Wistar rats using curative method

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to determine the anti-diarrheal and anti-inflammatory activities of hydroethanolic extract of ripe Annona muricata fruit pulp (HEAMP) on Wistar rats. METHODS: Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, each for the diarrhea and inflammatory phases. Groups A and B 10 mL/kg of distilled water and 2 mL of castor oil, Groups C, D, and E received 2 mL of castor oil + extract (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg). Groups A and B received 10 mL/kg of distilled water and 0.1 mL of egg white. Groups C, D, and E received the (0.1 mL) egg white and extract (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg). Data were analyzed using SPSS (25) using ANOVA followed by post hoc least significant difference, presented as mean ± standard error of the mean, and values considered significant at P < 0.05. RESULTS: The acute toxicity test of HEAMP is above 5000 mg/kg and rich in flavonoids, saponins, and proteins, with carbohydrates and tannins, and glycosides at moderate levels. Steroids, alkaloids, amino acids, and triterpenoids were absent. Furthermore, 30 min after diarrhea induction, the treated groups significantly increased (P = 0.012) in fecal count compared to Group A. Compared to Group B, the treated groups had a significant decrease in the fecal count at 60, 90, 120, and 150 min. At 30-min, there was a significant increase (P = 0.000) in paw-size in the treated groups compared to Group A. The treated groups had significantly lower edematous paw-size levels from 60 to 150 min compared to Group B. CONCLUSION: The HEAMP had anti-diarrheal and anti-inflammatory properties and is safe for consumption.