Phytochemical Profiling and Biological Activity Screening of Diplazium splendens: Insights into Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Antidiarrheal Effects

Abstract

Ethnic communities of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHTs) in southern Bangladesh traditionally use Diplazium splendens (D. splendens) to treat inflammation, diarrhea, and cough; however, there is no scientific evidence regarding the bioactivity of these plants. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition and evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiarrheal activities of the ethanol extract of D. splendens. The extract was prepared using a Soxhlet apparatus with ethanol as the solvent. Phytochemical screening and bioactivity assessments were conducted using qualitative chemical tests, the DPPH free radical scavenging assay, inhibition of heat-induced protein denaturation, and the castor oil–induced diarrhea model in mice. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, tannins, and vitamin C. The ethanol extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity with 51.46% DPPH inhibition compared to 65.77% for ascorbic acid. Significant (p<0.05) anti-inflammatory activity was observed, with 57.10% inhibition of protein denaturation of ethanol extract relative to aspirin (67.49%) at 1 mg/ml. The extract demonstrated dose-dependent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In vivo studies showed a significant reduction (p<0.01) of fecal percentage (42.02%), prolonged mean latency period, and delayed onset of diarrhea at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight, although the effect was moderate compared to loperamide (78.26%) at 3 mg/kg. These findings provide scientific evidence supporting the traditional use of D. splendens as a potential natural source for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiarrheal agents.

Bangladesh Pharmaceutical Journal 29(2): 228-234, 2026 (July)