Purgative/laxative actions of Globularia alypum aqueous extract on gastrointestinal-physiological function and against loperamide-induced constipation coupled to oxidative stress and inflammation in rats.

Abstract

Chronic constipation is a gastrointestinal functional disorder which affects patient quality of life. Therefore, many studies were oriented to search herbal laxative agents. In this study, we investigated the effect of Globularia alypum L. leaves aqueous extract (GAAE) against loperamide (LOP)-produced constipation. Animals were given LOP (3mg/kg, b.w., i.p.) and GAAE (100, 200, and 400mg/kg, b.w., p.o.) or yohimbine (2mg/kg, b.w., i.p.), simultaneously, for 1week. Gastric-emptying test and intestinal transit were determined. Colon histology was examined, and oxidative status was evaluated using biochemical-colorimetric methods. GAAE ameliorates significantly gastric emptying (64% to 76.5%) and intestinal transit (66.65% to 84.73%). LOP negatively influenced defecation parameters and generated a stress situation. GAAE administration in contrast ameliorated those parameters and re-established oxidative balance. GAAE showed a modest action against oxidative stress and decreased LOP effect and thereby can be considered a pharmacological agent in constipation.