The effect of ethyl acetate extract of Ficus thonningii (Blume) leaves on erythrocyte osmotic fragility and haematological parameters in acetaminophen-treated rats

Abstract

Ficus thonningii (Blume) (Moraceae) known as wild fig is a large economic tree indigenous to the savannah part of Nigeria. Its leaves have been of interest to researchers because of its increased use in diets and folkloric medicine against liver and related problems. The effect of the ethyl acetate extract of F. thonningii leaves on erythrocyte osmotic fragility in acetaminophen-treated rats were tested both in vivo and in vitro. The defatted ethyl acetate fraction of F. thonningii (EAFT) was tested for its effect on erythrocyte osmotic fragility with a view to establishing its protective ability on the integrity of red blood cell membranes of acetaminophen-treated rats. The acute toxicity test did not produce any death even at the dose of 5,000 mg/kg of the extract. The results of the present study demonstrated the potency of the extract in protecting the membrane integrity of the erythrocytes. EAFT at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight showed the highest protecting ability on the erythrocyte membrane integrity. The extract also improved levels of packed cell volume and red blood cells. The group administered 200 mg/kg body weight showed neutrophilia which may be as a result of response to stress or exogenous insult. Therefore, EAFT may be used to treat anaemia or stress.