THE ANTISPASMODIC EFFECT OF Clerodendrum quadriloculare (Blanco) Merr. LEAF EXTRACTS

Kay Ann S. Jonatas-Tongol*, Mafel C. Ysrael

Clerodendrum quadriloculare, locally named bagawak morado decoction of leaves is used to relieve abdominal pain in folklore. However, scientific data on the biological activities of the plant are limited, thus prompting this research to provide in part the scientific basis for the plant’s reputed use for smooth muscle relaxant effects. The methanolic extract of Clerodendrum quadrilocualre was subjected to phytochemical analysis, toxicity test and smooth muscle modulating effects using isolated rat ileum. Phytochemical analysis by thin layer chromatography revealed presence of flavonoids, steroids, triterpenes, coumarins, tannins, phenolics and alkaloids. Toxicity study showed that C. quadriloculare is non-toxic at 5000 mg/kg. Organ bath studies of the isolated rat ileum showed that DCM fraction comparable relaxation activity of the acetylcholine-induced contraction (EC₅₀=1376 μg/mL ± 0.03) as with the standard antagonist, Atropine (p > 0.05). The study indicates the potential use of Clerodendrum quadriloculare as a safe and effective treatment for smooth muscle spasm.