Phytochemistry, <i>In vitro</i> Anti-Trypanosomal Efficacy and Acute Toxicity of <i>Allium sativum</i> Linn. Bulb Aqueous Extract

Abstract

Allium sativum Linn. is a bulbos perennial plant of the Family Liliaceae has been reported as having potential medicinal properties. This study was on the phytochemistry, in vitro anti-trypanosomal efficacy and acute toxicity of Allium sativum Linn bulb aqueous extract using standard procedures. Qualitative phytochemistry indicated high scores (+++) for reducing sugars, moderate scores (++) for alkaloids, steriods and carbohydrates with low scores (+) for tannins, flavonoids and saponins. The median lethal dose of the aqueous extract in albino rats was determined to be 2400 mg/kg body weight following intraperitoneal administration. The albino rats exhibited weakness, lordosis, starry hair coat, awkward posture, loss of apetite. All the albino rats died within 24 hours. There was a significant (p<0.05) reduction in mean parasites count (x106) on exposure in vitro to all the graded extract concentrations compared with the normal, and parasite count also decreased with time post-inoculation. Similarly, a positive correlation existed between extract concentrations and inhibition rates of the parasites post-inoculation. In conclusion, the aqueous extract of Allium sativum has in vitro anti-trypanosomal activity.