Abdullahi Noor PROJECT RESULTS.

BackgroundDiarrhea remains a major global health concern, particularly in developing countries. Resistance to conventional antibiotics underscores the need for effective, plant-based alternatives. Croton kinondoensis, a traditional Kenyan remedy for gastrointestinal ailments, has yet to be scientifically validated. This study assessed its antidiarrheal and antimotility effects in vivo mouse models.MethodsLeaf extracts were prepared using dichloromethane/methanol (1:1). Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids and phenolics. Acute toxicity was assessed via OECD guideline 425. Antidiarrheal activity was tested using a castor oil-induced diarrhea model, and gastrointestinal motility was evaluated using the charcoal meal test. Mice were divided into five groups (n = 6): negative control (distilled water), positive control (loperamide 3 mg/kg), and three test groups receiving C. kinondoensis extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Statistical significance was determined using ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc test to determine significance (p ResultsThe extract showed no toxicity at 2000 mg/kg. In the castor oil-induced diarrhea model, the C. kinondoensis extract at 400 mg/kg inhibited diarrhea by 25.57% (p p p p ConclusionC. kinondoensis exhibits dose-dependent antidiarrheal and antimotility effects, supporting its traditional use. Although its efficacy was lower than loperamide, the extract demonstrated significant potential as a natural remedy for diarrhea.