Effect of <i>Megaphrynium Macrostachyum</i> Leaf Extract on some Haematological Parameters using Albino Rats: A Preliminary Study

Abstract

Background/aim: The study of some common plants and herbs used for vegetable and medicinal purposes has increased in Africa and other parts of the world in the recent past. The leaves of “Megaphrynium macrostachyum” has been used for different purposes. In Nigeria it is used for wrapping and cooking food, serving food and wrapping clothes or other items. The leaves add a special aroma to the food when used to cook or serve. It is also a remedy for epilepsy, mental problems and also possess sedative properties. It can be used as an antidote against arthropod or snake poisoning and venoms. This study was designed to investigate the effects of Megaphrynium macrostachyum extract on some haematological parameters using albino rats.

Materials/Method: Sixteen albino rats were divided into three groups with group 1 and 2 consisting of 5 albino rats each, and group three consisting of six albino rats were used. Group 1 was administered a low dose of the extract (200mg/kg) in addition with the basal diet, Group 2 was administered a high dose of the extract (400mg/kg) in addition with the basal diet, while Group 3served as the control and was placed on the basal diet alone. After 14 days, samples from all groups 1, 2 and 3 were analyzed. Blood samples were collected by a cardiac puncture and placed into potassium EDTA containers, of which 11 parameters were determined.

Results: The analysis of the data showed that the haematological parameters between groups 1, 2 and 3 showed differences (p > 0.05) with the difference in monocytes being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Increase in haematological parameters such as Total White Blood Cell count (15.51 x 10³ μl), Red Blood Cells (7.83 x 10⁶ μl), Haematocrit (42 %), Haemoglobin (13.38 g/dl), Lymphocytes (64.22%) was prominently seen in group 1 rats, administered with the low dose 200mg/kg, compared to group 2 rats administered with the high dose 400mg/kg and group 3 rats which were not administered any dose.

Conclusion: Increase in haematological parameters after feeding with Megaphrynium macrostachyum leaf extract in the low dose group may be a direct positive effect on haemopoietic (blood producing) tissues.