The effect of B. coccineus extract on the central nervous system was investigated using the Y maze, elevated plus maze, hexobarbital-induced hypnosis and hole-board tests. Antidiarrhoeal activity was evaluated using normal and castor oil-induced intestinal transit, castor oil-induced diarrhoea, intestinal fluid accumulation and gastric emptying tests. Phytochemical screening of the plant extract was carried to identify the chemical constituents present.