Evaluation of the Effects of Aqueous Extracts of <em>Calotropis Procera</em> on the Hematology and Serum Biochemistry of Adult Albino Rats

Abstract

Calotropis procera is a plant used vastly by indigenous livestock farmers. The plant has however been claimed to be poisonous. In this study, the effects of the plant was evaluated using hematological and serum biochemical analyses as indices of toxicosis. Thirty-two adult albino rats were administered orally with graded doses (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) of the aqueous leaf extract of the plant daily for 28 days. The total white blood cell and neutrophil counts were determined and showed significant differences (p<0.05), while lymphocytes insignificantly (p>0.05) increased. These findings may support the medicinal uses of the plant. The ALP, AST and ALT insignificantly (p>0.05) reduced in levels, while total protein and albumin levels increased significantly (p<0.05). These findings may suggest hepato-protective and medicinal effects of the plant. It was concluded that the use of the plant may be safe and that farmers may continue to use it according to their indications.