Effect of an Aqueous Extract of Allium Sativum Linn on the Intestinal Motility of the Rabbit

Abstract

The effect and probable mechanism of action of an aqueous extract of Allium sativum on intestinal motility of the rabbit was studied. Four rabbits were used as experimental animals in this study, and the standard organ bath procedure was used to monitor and record the contractions of the isolated intestine of the rabbits. The effects of acetylcholine, atropine and propranolol were also studied in the presence of the extract in the organ bath. The results show strong correlation between the log concentration of the extract and the percentage relaxation of the ileum, with r = 0.930325. This correlation was highly significant (p<0.01). Also, a regression analysis done on these results show Y = 46.742X + 0.3601. This was also highly significant (p<0.01). The results further revealed that, there was a significant (p<0.01) decrease in contraction, following the administration of graded concentration of the extract (2.0mg/ml to 14.0mg/ml). This decrease was therefore dose-dependent and when expressed as percentage range from 20.16% to 62.61%. The above results suggest that an aqueous extract of Allium sativum decreases intestinal motility in rabbits.

KEY WORDS: Allium sativum, garlic, intestinal motility.

Nigerian Journal of Health and Biomedical Sciences Vol.4(1) 2005: 40-45