Abstract

Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal disease that affects several people all over the world. Due to its escalating rate in developing countries, the need arises to discover more anti-diarrheal drugs of natural origin with little or no side effects. This research evaluated the phytochemical and anti-diarrheal properties of the ethanol extract of Clerodendrum volubile. Clerodendrum volubile was harvested within the area of Computer Village, Ago-Iwoye and Ijebu- Ode, Ogun State, Nigeria. Phytochemical screening was carried out using standard protocols while the antimicrobial assay was done using agar well diffusion method with different concentrations (2.5mg/ml, 12.5mg/ml, 50mg/ml, 100mg/ml) of Clerodendrum volubile extract administered on the test organisms (Bacillus cereus, Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus). The zone of inhibition was checked and data were subjected to statistical analysis. Values were expressed as mean ± standard deviation using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Post Hoc test. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids and tannins in appreciable amount (+++), alkaloids, saponins and steroids were moderate while terpenoids were in trace amount. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the antidiarrheal activity of Clerodendrum volubile revealed higher inhibition in Bacillus cereus (6.25mg/ml) compared to Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus. While the minimum bactericidal concentration in all tested organisms were less than 100mg/ml, only Bacillus cereus was100mg/ml. These phytochemicals might have contributed to the considerable in-vitro antidiarrheal potential of Clerodendrum volubile. Hence, further study should be done to unravel its mechanism of action and management, to ensure better health and safety.