Plants Used in the Ethnomedicine of Diarrheal Diseases: A Synthesis of Scientific Evidence on the Role of Secondary Metabolites in Antidiarrheal Activity

D.R Pratama; D.A Ananta; A. A. Lestari; D.N.K  Maharani

Authors

D.R Pratama Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
D.A Ananta Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
A. A. Lestari Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram
D.N.K Maharani Universitas Muhammadiyah Mataram

Keywords:

Ethnomedicine, Antidiarrheal, Secondary Metabolites, Medicinal Plants, Evidence Synthesis

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the relationship between plants used in the ethnomedicine of diarrheal diseases, their secondary metabolite contents, and the resulting antidiarrheal activities. The method used was library research with an integrative review approach, examining various scientific articles published from 2016 to 2025 obtained from several academic databases. The selection process was carried out through identification, screening, and eligibility evaluation stages to obtain relevant literature. The results showed that various plants from several families, such as Myrtaceae, Zingiberaceae, and Fabaceae, are traditionally used in the treatment of diarrhea. The most commonly used plant part was the leaves, with boiling being the primary preparation method. These plants contain major secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and saponins. These compounds are known to possess pharmacological activities as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antimotility, and antisecretory agents that contribute to reducing diarrhea symptoms. The conclusion of this study indicates that the use of plants in the ethnomedicine of diarrheal diseases has a strong scientific basis based on their secondary metabolite contents and pharmacological activities. These findings support the potential development of medicinal plants as an alternative natural-based antidiarrheal therapy.

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