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The haematinic activity of
the methanol leaf extract of Brillantasia nitens
Lindau (Acanthaceae) in rats
Peter A. Akah*, Christian
E. Okolo and Adaobi C. Ezike
Department
of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Nigeria,
Nsukka, Nigeria.
*Corresponding author. E-mail:
peterakah@hotmail.com.
Accepted
17 December, 2008 |
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Ethnopharmacological information indicates that the leaves of
Brillantasia nitens are used in the treatment of
anaemia in the south eastern states of Nigeria. In this
study, the methanol extract of the leaves of B. nitens
was tested for haematinic activity in rats using
phenylhydrazine (PHZ- 10 mg/kg. po)-induced anaemia. The red
blood cell count (RBC), haemoglobin concentration (Hb),
white blood cell count (WBC) and haemotocrit (PCV) were
analyzed as indices of anaemia. The phytochemical and
mineral contents, as well as the acute toxicity (LD50)
of the extract were determined. Oral administration of B.
nitens extract (400 - 3200 mg/kg/day) to rats previously
treated with PHZ increased the Hb, RBC, WBC and PVC within
one week. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of
alkaloids, glycosides, saponin, terpernoids, carbohydrates
and resins. The extract also contained substantial amounts
of vitamins B6, C and E, as well as folic acid
and iron. The LD50 value of the extract was
greater than 5000 mg/kg. These results lend credence to the
traditional use of B. nitens leaves in the treatment
of anaemia.
Key
word:
Haematinic activity, Brillantaisia nitens, rats,
anaemia, phenyhydrazine. |
