Evaluation of Selected Pharmacological Properties of a Polyherbal Extract (Aju Mbaise) in Experimental Rats

Robert Ikechukwu Uroko, Nnah Solomon Ijioma, Henry Nnaemeka Ogbonna, Nancy Oluomachi Uchenna

Abstract


Aju Mbaise, an herbal combination widely utilized in southeastern Nigeria for managing postpartum complications and alleviating menstrual pain, was evaluated for analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diarrheal properties in rats. Specific objectives included evaluating anti-diarrheal effects, examining anti-inflammatory effects and assessing analgesic properties of the herbal combination. The study involved subjecting the Aju Mbaise polyherbal extract (APE) to phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity testing. Anti-diarrheal effects were evaluated by administering charcoal as a meal and using castor oil-induced models. Anti-inflammatory effects were assessed through the carrageenan-induced paw oedema model, and analgesic properties were examined using the acetic acid-induced pain model. Phytochemical analysis identified alkaloids, tannins, phenols, steroids, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, flavonoids, and saponins in the extract. The acute toxicity value exceeded 5000 mg/kg body weight, indicating safety. In animal studies, APE exhibited significant inhibitory effects on intestinal motility, reduced wet stool frequency, and influenced the castor oil-induced diarrhoea and enhanced anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, it demonstrated a reduction in acetic acid-induced pain in rats. The APE with its diverse phytochemical composition, possesses anti-diarrheal, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. However, further research is needed to establish ideal dosages and potential adverse effects.

Keywords


Aju Mbaise polyherbal extract; Analgesic, Castor oil; Diarrhoea; Inflammation; Motility

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.14421/biomedich.2025.142.591-599

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Copyright (c) 2025 Robert Ikechukwu Uroko, Nnah Solomon Ijioma, Henry Nnaemeka Ogbonna, Nancy Oluomachi Uchenna



Biology, Medicine, & Natural Product Chemistry
ISSN 2089-6514 (paper) - ISSN 2540-9328 (online)
Published by Sunan Kalijaga State Islamic University & Society for Indonesian Biodiversity.

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