Anti-diarrhegenic and anti-ulcer properties of Irvingia gabonensis in rats

Abstract

The crude methanol extract of Irvingia gabonensis was evaluated for effects on gastrointestinal motility and indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration. The extract (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, p.o.) exhibited dose-dependent inhibition of indomethacin-induced gastric ulceration that seems to be stronger than cimetidine (50 mg/kg). A significant decrease in gastric acid secretion with concomitant increase in intragastric mucous secretion was produced by the extract at all doses studied. Gastrointestinal motility was significantly reduced in the extract-treated rats. Acute toxicity studies showed there were no deaths either 24 h or 7 days after the application of the extract up to 1600 mg/kg. The results show that Irvingia gabonensis possesses anti-diarrhegenic and anti-ulcer properties. The anti-ulcer property probably act via a reduction in gastric acid secretion and an increase in the intragastric mucous secretion.