Antidiarrhoeal Activity of <i>Plumbago zeylanica</i> using Different Extraction Techniques

Diarrheal diseases are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in developing regions, underscoring the need for effective treatments. This study explores the antidiarrhoeal potential of Plumbago zeylanica through bioactivity-guided fractionation and multiple extraction techniques. Methanolic, aqueous, and hydroalcoholic extracts of Plumbago zeylanica roots were evaluated for antidiarrhoeal activity using castor oil-induced diarrhea model in Wistar rats. Methanolic extract at 400 mg/kg significantly reduced diarrhea by 78% (p<0.01) and gastrointestinal transit by 65% (p<0.01). Aqueous and hydroalcoholic extracts showed moderate effects, with reductions of 58% and 63% in diarrhea, respectively. The findings validate the traditional use of Plumbago zeylanica for treating diarrhea and highlight plumbagin as a promising lead molecule with significant antidiarrhoeal potential.