Anthelmintic Properties of Methanol Extract of Bridelia micrantha (Hochst) Baill Leaves

Abstract

Helminths in recent times are said to be highly resistant to anthelmintic therapeutics. The level of attention paid to this area is quite low, therefore causing a serious threat to humans and livestock. Helminth’s infection is rampant in developing countries contributing significantly to economic losses and food security in general. This study aims to determine the Anthelmintic properties of methanol extract of Bridelia micrantha (Hochst) Baill leaves. Methods: The anthelmintic activity of helminths was determined by exposure to various concentrations of reference anthelminthic (albendazole, praziquantel and mebendazole) drugs and plant extract. Measurements were taken based on times for death and paralysis. Results: The extract exhibited a concentration-dependent anthelmintic activity against Lumbricus terrestris with significant (p < 0.0001) paralysis and death times when the extract concentrations were 4, 8, 16 and 32 mg/mL respectively. In the presence of 0.125 mg/mL of the extract the reference anthelmintic (albendazole), showed a potentiated activity against the test organism. In the presence of 0.25 mg/mL of the extract the reference anthelmintic (mebendazole), also showed a potentiated activity against the test organism. In the presence of 0.125 and 0.25 mg/ml of the extract, the reference anthelmintic (praziquantel) showed similar results. Conclusion: The extract had anthelmintic activity against L. terrestris and modified the resistance of the organism to albendazole, mebendazole and praziquantel.