ACUTE TOXICITY USING ALBINO RATS AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF THE ETHANOL ROOT EXTRACT OF Securidaca longipedunculata FRESEN. IN THE MANAGEMENT OF E. COLI O157-INDUCED DIARRHOEA IN RABBITS

ABSTRACT Securidaca longipedunculata Fresen., a member of the Polygalaceae family, is the only species of this Plant found in West African flora. It is known as 'Uwar magunguna' in Hausa, having been used for treating various ailments. However, there is a need to evaluate its safety and potential toxicity. This study investigates the in vivo and in vitro antidiarrheal effects of the root ethanol extract, using Escherichia coli O157-induced diarrhoea in rabbits. The in vitro antimicrobial study showed an MBC of 100 mg/mL and an MIC of 200 mg/mL against E. coli O157. The acute lethal dose of the extract revealed an oral LD50 of ≥ 5000 mg/kg bd. wt. in albino rats. The in vivo antidiarrheal study indicated that the extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg bd. The weight was able to reduce the bacterial load drastically during treatment, with 71% protection given to the animals, observed at 200 mg/kg bd. wt. after 72 hours treatment. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between the extract and tetracycline in bacterial reduction (p > 0.05). The extract also caused a decrease in body temperature and mild to severe effects on various tissues, including liver cell necrosis. These findings suggest that S. longipedunculata possesses antidiarrheal and antimicrobial properties, with a relatively safe margin of toxicity. However, it may cause liver damage and ulceration of the small intestine at higher doses. Therefore, the plant should be used in Traditional Medicine with caution. Keywords: Securidaca longepedunculata; Histopathology; Tissues; Antidiarrhoea; Uwar magunguna; E. coli, Rabbit.