EXPLORING THE ANTI-DIARRHEAL AND ANTI-HELICOBACTER PYLORI POTENTIAL OF ANDROSACE FOLIOSA: INSIGHTS FROM THE N-HEXANE LEAF FRACTION

Abstract

Diarrhea is a common gastrointestinal condition marked by increased frequency and looseness of stools, representing a significant public health issue worldwide, especially among children under five. It contributes substantially to illness and death, with the highest impact seen in developing areas such as Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.

In this research, the aerial parts of Androsace foliosa were collected, properly identified, and processed to extract a hexane fraction. The spasmolytic activity of this extract was evaluated using isolated jejunal tissue from virgin female rabbits and anti-H. pylori was determined through disc diffusion method. Jejunal segments were suspended in an organ bath containing Tyrode’s solution under controlled physiological conditions, and their spontaneous as well as potassium-induced contractions were measured. The hexane fraction was applied in varying concentrations to determine its dose-dependent relaxant effect, compared with verapamil, a known calcium channel blocker. Further investigation of calcium antagonism was performed by generating calcium concentration-response curves in a calcium-free, potassium-rich environment, with and without the plant extract. The results showed that the hexane fraction caused a significant, concentration-dependent relaxation of the rabbit jejunum, with EC50 values comparable to those of verapamil for both spontaneous and potassium-evoked contractions. Considering these promising spasmolytic and calcium channel blocking effects, further research is needed to isolate and identify the bioactive compounds responsible and to assess the in vivo efficacy and safety of A foliosa extracts in animal models. This study supports the potential of traditional medicinal plants as safe and effective options for antidiarrheal and anti-ulcer therapies.