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Full Length Research Paper
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Acute toxicity studies of
aqueous stem bark extract of Ximenia americana
Maikai, V. A.1*, Kobo, P. I.2 and
Adaudi, A. O.2
1College
of Agriculture and Animal Science, Ahmadu Bello University,
P.M.B.2134, Mando, Kaduna, Nigeria.
2Veterinary
Physiology and Pharmacology, Ahmadu Bello University Samaru
Zaria, Nigeria.
*Corresponding author. E-mail:
ambrosev2003@yahoo.com.
Accepted 18 April, 2008 |
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Abstract |
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Increasing interest in
medicinal plants has increased scientific scrutiny of their
therapeutic potentials and safety thereby providing
physicians with data to help patients make wise decision on
their usage. The stem bark of Ximenia americana was
evaluated for its phytochemical constituents and acute
toxicity effect on thirty Swiss albino mice. The extracts
were administered intraperitoneally/orally at doses of 10,
100, and 1000 mg/kg body weight. The results revealed no
death with doses up to 5000 mg/kg body weight. However, the
initial reactions included excitement, restlessness, lack of
appetite and later reduced activity during the first 24 h of
extract administration. The symptoms were dose dependent
with signs noticeable with increasing dosage. Post mortem,
hematological and histopathological examination did not show
any significant (P<0.05) damage as a result of the extract
administration. However, there were significant (P<0.05)
weight changes. Phytochemical screening of the aqueous stem
bark extract revealed the presence of cardiac glycosides,
flavonoids, saponins, and tannin. The results suggest that
the aqueous extract is not acutely toxic to the mice.
Key words:
Ximenia americana, toxicity, phytochemicals. |
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