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Investigation of some pharmacological actions of the aqueous extract of <i>Paulinia pinnata</i> leaves


Danlami W Dayom
Stephen S Gyang
Bukata B Bukar

Abstract

The plant Paulinia pinnata is traditionally used extensively in the treatment of leishmaniasis in some endemic communities in Nigeria with acclaimed success. The plant therefore needs to be evaluated for other beneficial and toxic effects while its antileishmanial activity is being studied. The aqueous leaf extract of the plant Paulinia pinnata Linn. (Sapindaceae) was tested for its diuretic and morphological effects in rats and its hypotensive effect in cat. These investigations revealed that the extract has considerable diuretic activity (P<0.05) 24h after treatment and also caused significant changes in liver and kidney morphologies. These changes suggest potential organ toxicity. The extract also demonstrated hypotensive effect in cat. Phytochemical studies revealed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, saponins and cardiac glycosides. The plant therefore possesses some important biological activities that could be harnessed and employed beneficially.

Key Words: Paulinia pinnata; Diuretic; Hypotensive effect; Liver morphology; Kidney morphology.

Journal of Pharmacy and Bioresources Vol.1(1) 2004: 12-16

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