Effect of Solanum gilo leaf extract on some haematological indices of albino Wistar rats

Abstract

Solanum gilo (eggplant) is an edible vegetable whose leaf is reported to possess numerous medicinal properties due to its rich constituents. Against this backdrop, there is possibility that its consumption may have effect on haematological indices. Therefore this research sought to assess the effect of Solanum gilo leaf diet on some haemotological indices of albino wistar rats. About twenty four (24) albino wistar rats weighing between 120-150mg were randomly assigned into four groups of six animals each. Each rat was allowed to drinking water ad labitum. Control group received normal rodent chow while group 2 was fed 5% Solanum gilo diet. Group 3 was fed 10% Solanum gilo diet and group 4 received 20% Solanum gilo diet. The different diets were prepared by mixing different proportions of ground S. gilo leaves with rodent chow. Automated blood cell analyzer (Model PCE 210, Japan) was used for analysis of haematological parameters. Preliminary study on its proximate composition, showed the appreciable presence of crude fat, protein, fibre and carbohydrate. Consumption of S. gilo caused significant improvement in some blood parameters; notably packed cell volume (PCV), white blood cell (WBC) and platelet counts. Hence, eggplant is a nutritious vegetable with healing, the therapeutic and immunity properties. If exploited in human diet has the potentials of improving quality of life.