Sub-Chronic Toxicity: Biochemical, Hematological and Histopathological Effects of Picralima nitida (Apocynaeceae) Root Bark
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26538/tjdr/v2i5.6Keywords:
Medicinal plants, Picralima nitida, Toxicity, Haematology, Histopathology, BiochemicalAbstract
Purpose: Picralima nitida, commonly called Akuamma, is a plant native to West Africa, and has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. This study aimed to investigate the sub-chronic toxicity, with specific focus on biochemical, haematological and histopathological effects of the root bark of Picralima nitida.
Methods: Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1 (control) received distilled water only, Groups 2 – 4 (treatment groups) were administered 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg of P. nitida root bark methanol extract, respectively orally once daily for 28 days. On the 29th day, rats were sacrificed, blood samples were collected for biochemical and haematological analyses, while vital organs (liver, kidney, and heart) were excised and used for histopathological analysis.
Results: Results showed that the sub-chronic administration of P. nitida root bark did not cause significant changes in serum biochemical and haematological parameters in rats. However, the extract produced significant (P<0.05) increases in mid cells (MID), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) when compared to the control. No significant increase (P>0.05) was observed in white blood cell (WBC) count, red blood cell (RBC) count, and hemoglobin (HGB) concentration. Histopathological examination revealed normal tissue architecture, although the presence of immunological cells, and vasodilatation may indicate toxicity.
Conclusion: Findings from the study suggest that the root bark extract of P. nitida is nontoxic, and relatively safe on sub-chronic administration. However, further studies are needed with higher doses and longer duration of administration to fully understand the plant's toxicity.
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