Evaluation of the acute and sub-acute toxicity of methanol leaf extract of Stylochaeton warneckei Engl., (Araceae) in Wistar rats.

 Stylochaeton warneckei, Acute toxicity, Sub-acute toxicity, Biochemical, Haematological parameters.

.

*Corresponding author:

eleazar.alozie@unn.edu.ng;

DOI:

 10.48245/tnpr-2734391.2023.4.102

Page No: 29-37
Volume: 3, Issue 1, 2023
Trends in Natural Products Research
Copy Right: NAPREG

Abstract

Stylochaeton warneckei is used by herbalists to treat diabetes, bacterial infections, and other ailments. There is limited scientific evidence regarding its safety profile despite the wide local usage. This study was designed to assess the acute and sub-acute toxicity of the methanol leaf extract of Stylochaeton warneckei in rodents. The acute toxicity of the extract was estimated in mice while the sub-acute toxicity investigations were conducted in male Wistar rats at three dose levels (200, 400, and 800 mg/kg). At the end of the treatment period, blood samples were collected and vital organs harvested and weighed. Gross observations were made and the liver was subjected to Histopathological investigations. At doses up to 5000 mg/kg, the extract was not lethal to the mice. In the sub-acute toxicity investigations, administration of the extract for 28 days did not significantly (p > 0.05) change the organ weights. The haematological and biochemical parameters were not significantly (p > 0.05), altered by the extract.  Histopathological investigation of the liver revealed normal histology of hepatocytes, and liver parenchyma, in the control as well as that of the treatment groups. The results of these studies showed that the methanol leaf extract of Stylochaeton warneckei is relatively safe and pose no toxicity concern in short- and medium-term usage.