Effect of hydro-alcoholic extract of Artemisia aucheri on castor oil-induced diarrhea in male rat

Diarrhea is one of the worldwide health problems and also one of the most common causes of children’s death. In this study the effect of Artemisia aucheri on castor oil-induced diarrhea was investigated. In this experimental study 30 male rats were randomly divided into 5 groups as flowing: group receiving. Artemisia aucheri in doses of 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg, Diphenoxylate 5 mg/kg; and control group solvent (Physiology cerum). One hour after drugs orally receiving or (normal saline 10 ml/kg), each animal was given castor oil (2 ml/rat) by an oro-gastric catheter. Then the rat's defection was placed in to a separate cage and observed for 5 h to determine fecal quality, frequency, and weight. Data were analyzed useing one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests and P<0.05 was considered as significant difference. Artemisia aucheri in doses of 100 and 200 and Diphenoxylate attenuated showed the weight loss percentage, frequency and weight of stool (P<0.01). Artemisia aucheri 200 also decreased water content of stool (P<0.05), compare with control group. Extract of Artemisia aucheri plant has the same effects as Diphenoxylate has on attenuating castor oil - induced diarrhea symptoms and it also reduce fecal water content. With further research, it might be used as a new drug for curing diarrohea.