Evaluation of Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant and Anti-Diarrheal Activities of Traditional Medicinal Shrub in Albino Mice

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the properties and inhibitory activities of the methanolic extract of the medicinal shrub Cichorium intybus. This plant has traditionally been used for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-pyretic, antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic and anticancer properties. The research included a phytochemical screening, antioxidant capacity measurement and anti-diarrheal activity assessment. The phytochemical study revealed the presence of saponins, gums and carbohydrates, alkaloids, terpenoids, steroids and reducing sugars. The antioxidant capacity was measured by the DPPH method with an IC50 value of 157.7±0.6 µg/ml, which was compared to the IC50 Value of ascorbic acid (8.84±0.05 µg/ml). The doses used in the experiment were 3.125 µg/ml, 6.25 µg/ml, 12.5 µg/ml, 25 µg/ml and 50 µg/ml. The total phenolic content was determined using the Galic Acid Equivalent (GAE) method, with a total phenolic content of 64±60686 observed at a dose of 1mg/ml. These results indicated the presence of antioxidant properties in C. intybus. In addition, the anti-diarrheal activity was tested in mice using doses of 20 mg/ml, 40 mg/ml and 80 mg/ml by the Castor oil induced method. The results showed a significant reduction in diarrhea in mice with a reduction in stool weight (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results of this study provide evidence of the properties and inhibitory activities of C. intybus, confirming its potential as a medicinal plant.