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Effect of <i>Haematostaphis barteri</i> (blood plum) leaf extracts on histopathalogical parameters of albino rats


Hananiya H. Milagawanda
Irfan Z. Khan
Samuel Y. Timothy
Ibrahim Iliya

Abstract

Haematostaphis barteri has been extensively used as food supplement and in the treatment of haemorrhoids, stomach aches and vomiting. The present study is aimed at assessing the effects of the aqueous, ethanol and methanol leaf extracts of Haematostaphis barteri on the histopathological parameters in rats. The fresh leaves of Haematostaphis barteri were collected, dried, powdered and extracted using water, 95% ethanol and methanol. Graded doses of 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg of the extracts administered for four weeks were used to evaluate the histopathological parameters in rats. Histopathological findings due to the subchronic administration of the extracts showed villous atrophy, goblet cell hyperplasia and presence of thick mucus exudates in the small intestines. There was severe glomerular and tubular degeneration of the kidneys and moderate pulmonary congestion and thickening of the interalveolar septae. Therefore, the use of Haematostaphis barteri plant part especially the leaves for either food supplement or medicinal purposes for long period has to be with caution because of its effect on the lungs, gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.

Keywords: Haematostaphis barteri; Leaves; Extracts; Histopathology


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eISSN: 0189-8442