In-vivo and ex-vivo Evaluation of Constipating and Spasmolytic Activity of Dialium guineense Wild Fruit Pulp

Background and Objective: Dialium guineense wild fruit pulp is highly appreciated by all socio-economic strata of Togo, but unfortunately, a significant portion of consumers complain of constipation after taking this pulp. This study aims to evaluate the constipating effects of the fruit pulp of Dialium guineense. Material and Methods: The effects of Dialium guineense fruit pulp (250, 500 and 1000 mg kg‾¹) on the frequency of defecation, the quantity and the water content of the daily stools emitted by Wistar rats were studied. The effects of this pulp (1, 2, 4 mg mL‾¹) on the motility of isolated rabbit ileum were also studied. Results: The fruit pulp of D. guineense at 250, 500 and 1000 mg kg‾¹ have induced a significant decrease in the daily fecal number, fecal weight and water content. D. guineense pulp has also induced a significant (p<0.001) reduction in fecal number, fecal weight and water content after 7 days of administration. The fruit pulp of D. guineense at 1, 2 and 4 mg mL‾¹ have induced a significant spasmolytic effect on the rabbit intestine at 8.88, 18.36 and 51.52%, respectively. Conclusion: The fruit pulp of Dialium guineense at different concentrations has constipating and spasmolytic properties and thus confirm the traditional claim of the constipating effect of the fruit pulp of Dialium guineense.