Abstract
Ethnopharmacological information indicates that the leaves of Brillantasia nitens are used in the treatment of anaemia in the south eastern states of Nigeria. In this study, the methanol extract of the leaves of B. nitens was tested for haematinic activity in rats using phenylhydrazine (PHZ- 10 mg/kg. po)- induced anaemia. The red blood cell count (RBC), haemoglobin concentration (Hb), white blood cell count (WBC) and haemotocrit (PCV) were analyzed as indices of anaemia. The phytochemical and mineral contents, as well as the acute toxicity (LD50) of the extract were determined. Oral administration of B. nitens extract (400 - 3200 mg/kg/day) to rats previously treated with PHZ increased the Hb, RBC, WBC and PVC within one week. Phytochemical analysis showed the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, saponin, terpernoids, carbohydrates and resins. The extract also contained substantial amounts of vitamins B6, C and E, as well as folic acid and iron. The LD50 value of the extract was greater than 5000 mg/kg. These results lend credence to the traditional use of B. nitens leaves in the treatment of anaemia.
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