The Evaluation of the Antidiarrheal Properties of Ethanolic Rhizome Extract of Zingiber zerumbet (Zingiberaceae)

Diarrhea was a prevalent condition that affected millions globally each year, representing a significant public health challenge. It often led to acute dehydration, with severe complications particularly impacting vulnerable populations such as the elderly and young children. The condition remained a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in resource- limited settings. Zingiber zerumbet, commonly referred to as shampoo ginger, was a member of the Zingiberaceae family, closely related to Z. officinale (ginger). Traditionally used in medicine, Z. zerumbet was believed to possess antidiarrheal potential due to its rich phytochemical profile, which included anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds. Research on Z. officinale has demonstrated its efficacy in managing diarrhea through mechanisms such as reducing intestinal motility and addressing microbial pathogens. It was hypothesized that Z. zerumbet may exert similar effects, potentially mitigating excessive intestinal secretions and resolving microbial factors contributing to diarrhea. This study investigated the antidiarrheal activity of ethanolic rhizome extract of Zingiber zerumbet using castor oil- induced diarrhea and gastrointestinal motility tests in mice. The extract was administered at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the LD50, with loperamide as the positive control and PNSS with 2% Tween 80 as the negative control. Evaluated parameters included stool frequency, consistency, and intestinal transit using the charcoal meal method. The extract was consistently prepared through ethanol maceration and demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with no signs of toxicity at the administered doses. Pharmacological assessments revealed significant reduction of diarrhea frequency, improvement of stool consistency, and inhibition of gastrointestinal motility compared to controls. These outcomes led to the rejection of the null hypotheses and supported the alternative, confirming a dose-dependent antidiarrheal effect comparable to loperamide. The findings underscore the potential of Z. zerumbet as a safe and effective natural antidiarrheal agent, warranting further exploration for therapeutic use.