Evaluation of Trinidad and Tobago traditional medicine I: effects of traditional folk remedy on diarrhoea

Abstract

Hot aqueous extract of the bark of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew), commonly used in Trinidadian folk medicine for the treatment of diarrhoea was evaluated for antidiarrhoeal activity. The extract inhibited castor oil-induced induced diarrhoea in rats as judged by a decrease in the number of wet faeces in the extract-treated rats. The extract also inhibited the propulsive movement of intestinal contents in mice. The extract showed no direct effect on the isolated guinea­pig ileum, however, it inhibited in a dose - related manner the contractile effects of acetylcholine, histamine, and 5- hydroxytryptamine. The inhibitory effects on these agonists were non competetive in nature. Phytochemical tests revealed the main constituents as tannin, steroids, triterpenoid and carbohydrates. The results indicate that action of A. occidentale bark extract could be through a combination of inhibition of elevated transmitter released and reduced propulsive movement of the small intestine. There is merit in the folk medicinal use of the extract.