BY : Emmanuel Wandera,
Department of Human Anatomy & Medical Physiology,
University of Nairobi.

ABSTRACT
The aim of this study was to investigate the antidiarrheal effects of freeze-dried extracts of Justicia betonica Linn, a plant traditionally used in Nandi County, Kenya, for treating diarrhea. Diarrhea, a significant public health issue, especially in developing nations, is commonly managed with oral rehydration salts (ORS) and modern antidiarrheal drugs, which have limitations such as side effects and insufficient efficacy. Given the potential of medicinal plants in offering safer alternatives, this study utilizes an in vivo rat model, where diarrhea was induced with castor oil, and an ex vivo model, testing the plant extracts’ effects on isolated rabbit jejunal segments. The research aims to validate the traditional use of Justicia betonica Linn and contribute to the development of more effective diarrhea treatments.

PLANT COLLECTION & EXTRACTION