The effect of xylopia aethiopica on bile secretion and electrolytes was studied. Twenty one albino rats were randomly distributed into 3 groups n=7. Group 1 was gavaged with a high dose (0.25ml/g) of xylopia aethiopica extract. Group 2 was gavaged with a low dose (0.1ml/g) of xylopia aethiopica extract while the group 3 (Control) received 0.1ml/kg of normal saline. Extract administration was done by orogastric feeding for a period of 28 days. All animals were allowed access to food and water at will. At the end of feeding period, the rate of bile secretion and it electrolyte concentration was determined using standard methods. Results obtained showed that xylopia aethiopica extract has a dose dependent decrease in the rate of bile secretion, increased biliary potassium and bicarbonate ions concentration, decreased chloride ion concentration, and a decrease sodium ion concentration in the low dose treated group compared with control (P<0.01). Therefore, administration of aqueous extract of xylopia aethiopica may alter fat emulsification and absorption but may prevent duodenal ulceration due to the high bicarbonate content; hence it can be useful in the management or prevention of duodenal ulcers but should not be administered to patients with a known etiology of steatorrhoea.
