Evaluation of the Laxative Activity of Saponin Enriched Hydroethanolic Pericarp Extract of Sapindus emarginatus in Animal Models

Background: Constipation is a common, predominant, chronic gastrointestinal functional disorder. The drugs available to treat constipation are limited because of their side effects for long term use. Therefore, we need effective drug to treat constipation. Sapindus emarginatus Vahl belongs to the family Sapindaceae, commonly known as soapnut. It is traditionally used as an antipruritic, antifertility, laxative, and anti-inflammatory agent. Objective: The present study was conducted to evaluate the laxative activity of hydroethanolic pericarp extract of Sapindus emarginatus (HESE) in animal models. Methods: The saponin content in the extract was measured by the gravimetric analysis. The laxative activity of hydroethanolic pericarp extract of Sapindus emarginatus was evaluated by the weight of feces matter, charcoal meal hyperperistalsis test, and loperamide induced constipation model. Results: The saponin content of the soapnut pericarp was 13.48% and the extract was found to be 11.92%. The results obtained from these models showed a significant dose-dependent increase in fecal weight, peristalsis index, and moisture content compared to control animals. Conclusion: The present study concluded that the oral administration of HESE showed a significant laxative activity in different animal models. The presence of triterpene saponins is supposed to be responsible for this activity. Further studies are needed to confirm their mechanism behind the laxative effect. The administration of the extract was found to be effective in constipation therapy.