Haematological Effects of Dichloromethane-Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl in Normal Rat Models

Abstract

Assessment of hematological parameters can be used to explain blood related functions of a plant extract. The blood can act as pathological reflector and also as an indicator of the physiological state of an animal. Hematological disorders are increasingly on the rise while conventional management of these disorders is not easily accessible. This has prompted an increased use of medicinal plants which are readily available in the management of blood disorders. Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl (Apocynaceae) like other terrestrial plants, has ethnopharmacological relevance and has been exploited by the local people in search for remedies for various diseases including those of the blood. Although C. edulis is widely used in managing blood related disorders in traditional system of medicine, no scientific research have been undertaken to evaluate its effects on the hematological profiles. This study therefore was designed to investigate the effects of Dichloromethane-Methanolic leaf extract of C. edulis on hematological parameters. Experimental rats were divided into four groups each consisting of five normal rats. The groups received oral doses of 50, 75 and 100 mg/kgbw of the extract while one group was used as control and did not receive any dosage. Hematological analysis and phytochemical screening were conducted using standard recommended procedures. The results of this study showed that DCM-MeOH leaf extract of C. edulis induced general increase in the levels of red blood cells, Hemoglobin and related parameter profiles across the different dose levels (p<0.05). The total and differential white blood cell counts also increased significantly at all the dose levels during the study period (p<0.05). Platelets and the related parameter levels significantly increased as well at all dose levels during this study period (p<0.05). Qualitative phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of various phytochemicals which included alkaloid, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, terpenes and traces of steroids which have the ability to protect the erythrocytes from oxidative damage as well as possess erythropoietin stimulatory, immunestimulatory and thrombopoietic stimulatory activities. It was therefore concluded that the plant extract may be useful in the management of hematological disorders