Administration Of Leaf Extract Research Articles

Effects of the Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Bitter Leaf (Vernonia amygdalina) Ethanolic Extract on Streptocuccus Pyrogenes Induced Wister Rats

Aim: To investigate the effectiveness of V. amygdalina leaf extract on the remediation of the cytological and physiological damages on albino rats caused by streptococcus pyogenes. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) design with multiple treatment groups. Research was done at the department of Science Laboratory Technology, University of Calabar, Cross River state, between March 2023 and June 2023. Methodology: Bitter extract was obtained through Soxlet extraction, and screened for the presence of secondary metabolites using standard phytochemical screening procedures. A pure culture of S. pyogenes was gotten from Microbiology Laboratory University of Calabar. Thirty five albino rats (100-175g), obtained from the Pharmacology department, University of Calabar were placed in 7 groups (A-G). Rats in groups A-F each was injected with the bacterium, observed for five days. Group A-E rats were subsequently treated with 0g/200 ml, 20g/200 ml, 40g/200 ml, 60g/200 ml, and 100g/200ml crude extract of bitter leaf respectively. While group F was treated with standard antibiotics. 0.5ml Cefuroxime Axetil tablets usp was injected into the rats. Group G rats served as negative control. Results: Results showed the presence of alkaloids, acidic compounds, tannins, flavonoids and Saponins. Haematocrit increased slightly in group A-E (18.3-46.3%) treated with 0g/200ml, 20g/200ml, 40g/200 ml, 60g/200 ml, and 100g/200ml concentrations of the extract, respectively. But more in group F (50.2%) that received antibiotics treatment, when compared with the control. Similar trend was observed for haemoglobin (Hb) values (15.3g/dl) and red blood cell (RBC) counts (3.0 x1012/l) that increased with increasing concentration of 100g/200ml extract treatment and antibiotics treatment (Hb = 15.7g/dl; RBC = 3.3 x1012/l) respectively. The white blood cell counts decreased with antibiotic treatment. Conclusion: Study established that in vivo administration of bitter leaf extract on albino rats was best at 60g/200 ml, and 100g/200ml in ameliorating haematotoxicity caused by S. pyogenes.

Sub-Chronic Toxicity Test of Purple Leaf Extract on the Kidney Histopathology of Male White Rats

Traditional herbal medicine has become increasingly popular as an alternative to conventional medical treatments. Although the plant offers numerous health benefits, caution should be exercised regarding its long-term use. Long-term use of traditional herbal remedies can have detrimental effects on the kidneys. This study was designed to assess the histological changes in the kidneys of male rats following 28 days of purple sage leaf extract administration and to identify potential harmful effects. The study utilized 20 male Wistar rats and utilized a randomized group design for the experimental methodology. Rats were categorized into four distinct groups, consisting of one control group and three treatment groups. The control group received solely sodium chloride, whereas the treatment group 1 (P1) received 500 mg/kg BB of purple sage ethanol extract. Treatment group 2 received up to 2000 mg/kg BB of purple sage ethanol extract, while treatment group 3 received up to 5000 mg/kg BB. The oral examination was conducted for a duration of 28 days. The treatment groups showed an increase in weight and organ index of the right kidney. The findings suggest a potential for toxicity resulting from the administration of purple sage leaf extract over a duration of 28 days.

The Protective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Olive Leaf on Aluminum Phosphide-Induced Cardiac Toxicity in Rats

Background: The purpose of this study is to evaluate a treatment for aluminum phosphide (ALP) poisoning, which is known as “rice tablet”. Methods: In the present study, the impact of different doses of ethanolic extract of olive leaves (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg) on ALP (120 mg/kg)-induced cardiotoxicity was evaluated in anesthetized-gastrotomized adult male Wistar rats. Thirty-five rats were randomly assigned into five groups (n=7) as follows: control (AC) and treatment groups [ALP+Olea100 (AO100), ALP+Olea 200 (AO200), and ALP+Olea 400 (AO400)]. Physiological data including blood pressure, heart rate, electrocardiogram (ECG), as well as oxidative stress markers were measured in heart tissues. Results: ALP-intoxication led to perturbed normal ECG and increased oxidative stress. Administration of olive leaf extract at various concentrations, however, mitigated bradycardia after 90 minutes, following ALP-intoxication (in AO200), hypotension (in AO100), and cardiac conduction disturbances (decreased QTC in the AO200 30 (P<0.05), 60 (P<0.001), and 90 (P<0.05) minutes after intoxication) and decreased PR 60 (P<0.05) and 90 minutes (P<0.01) after intoxication. This was compared with baseline as well as detrimental changes in cardiac electrophysiology [mitigated ST-segment elevation in AO200 and depressed T-wave in the AO200 (P<0.05) and AO400 (P<0.01) groups 90 minutes after intoxication] Conclusion: Based on these authentic results, it seems that olive leaf extracts can be useful in reducing the severity of symptoms in ALP-poisoned individuals and could be utilized in a poisoning emergency.

The Effect of Giving Mangrove Leaf Extract (Rhizophora apiculata) on the Healing of Burn Wounds in Male White Rats (Rattus novergicus) of the Sprague Dawley Strain

A burn wound is damage or loss of tissues caused by contact with a heat source and can be classified into four degrees: I, IIA, IIB, and III. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents such as mangrove leaves can be applied to aid the healing process of burns. One alternative method is to use mangrove leaf extract. This study aims to understand the acceleration of burn healing by applying mangrove leaf extract (Rhizophora apiculata). This study was a true experimental study with a post-test-only control group design, divided into five groups: Knormal (without treatment), K+ (bioplacenton), P1 (20% extract), P2 (30% extract), and P3 (40% extract). Burn wounds were observed for 21 days and assessed with average wound shortening, healing time, and the Bates-Jensen wound assessment tool. Based on the results of statistical tests, it was found that the application of Rhizophora apiculata leaf extract affected the healing of burns in white rats, resulting in a reduction in the burn area (P Value: 0.001). The application of mangrove leaf extract had an effect on the healing time of burns in white rats (P Value: 0.001). An effective dose of mangrove leaf extract was a concentration of 40% for healing burns, a higher effectiveness in healing burns compared to the standard drug, bioplacenton. The administration of mangrove leaf extract positively affects the healing of burns in male white rats (Rattus novergicus) of the Sprague Dawley strain, especially with an extract concentration of 40%.

Hematological, biochemical and histological evaluation of sub-chronic administration of ethanol leaf extract of <i>Canscora decussate</i> on kidney and stomach of Wistar rats

Hematological, biochemical and histological evaluation of sub-chronic administration of ethanol leaf extract of <i>Canscora decussate</i> on kidney and stomach of Wistar rats

Effects of Yacon Leaf Extract on MCP-1 and IL-10 Expressions and Macrophage Phenotypes in CKD Mouse Model

Macrophages are essential in tissue homeostasis and immunity, but also contribute to disease development and progression. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by interstitial infiltration of macrophages, the density of which correlates inversely with kidney survival. Studies have shown that yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) has beneficial effects on CKD. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of yacon leaf extract on mice with subtotal nephrectomy by evaluating the M1 and M2 macrophage counts and mRNA expressions of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1 and IL-10. The mice were randomly divided into five groups: SO (negative control: underwent sham operation), SN (positive control: underwent subtotal nephrectomy), and yacon-treated groups: YK1, YK2, and YK3 (underwent subtotal nephrectomy, given peroral yacon leaf extract for 14 days with doses of 24,5 mg/kgBW/day, 49 mg/kgBW/day, and 98 mg/kgBW/day, respectively). The macrophage subtypes were assessed using immunohistochemistry anti-CD68 for M1 and anti-Arginase I for M2. MCP-1 and IL-10 mRNA expressions were analyzed using semi-quantitative PCR. Results showed that yacon leaf extract could significantly lower the M2 macrophage count (p<0.001) and the mRNA expressions of MCP-1 and IL-10 in all yacon-treated groups when compared to the SN group. However, the M1 macrophage count was only lower in the YK2 group (p=0.009). In conclusion, the administration of yacon leaf extract could attenuate kidney injury by lowering the macrophage count and the expression of MCP-1 and IL-10.

Rapid determination of four flavonoids from hawthorn leaves in plasma by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry and study on its pharmacokinetics

AbstractIn this study, a rapid and sensitive ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method was established for the simultaneous determination of four Vitexin‐4“‐O‐glucoside (VOG), Vitexin‐2”‐O‐rhamnoside (VOR), vitexin (VIT), and hyperoside (HP) in plasma, which are representative flavonoids constituents of hawthorn leaves. The four components were separated by CORTECS UPLC C18 column (100 × 3.0 mm, 1.6 µm), using acetonitrile‐water containing 0.02% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate as the mobile phase, the gradient elution flow rate was 0.30 mL/min. The analyte was quantified using an electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The analytes and baicalin internal standard were performed at m/z 593.2/413.2 for VOG, m/z 577.2/413.1 for VOR, m/z 431.1/310.9 for VIT, m/z 463.2/300 for HP and m/z 445.1/269 for internal standard. Among the four flavonoids, the correlation coefficient of the standard curve of each component is between 0.9939 and 0.9987. After oral administration of hawthorn leaf extract, VOG and VOR showed similar pharmacokinetic characteristics; VIT was eliminated in the body more slowly than the other three flavonoids and distributed more in the tissues; HP can be quickly absorbed in the blood. The developed analytical method has high sensitivity, precision, and accuracy with no interference from plasma components and has been successfully used in pharmacokinetic studies.

Ninety-Day Toxicological Assessment of Preparation of the Medicinal Plant Newbouldia laevis (P. Beauv.) Seem. (Bignoniaceae) in Rats

Objectives To investigate the safety profile of subchronic oral administration of hydroethanol leaf extract of Newbouldia laevis (NL) in rats. Methods NL was administered orally (20, 100, and 500 mg/kg) to groups of rats for 90 days. Distilled water served as control. Some rats were spared for an extra 30 days with no extract administration (reversibility study). Blood, urine and selected vital organs were collected for analyses. Results In male rats, NL (20, 500 mg/kg) irreversibly increased ( P˂.05) bodyweight and feeding pattern with opposite trend of results in females. NL (20 mg/kg) elicited irreversible decrease ( P˂0.05) in RBC in male rats; a reversible decrease in RBC and Hb, and an irreversible increase (500 mg/kg) in WBC and neutrophils in females. In male rats, NL irreversibly decreased ( P˂.01) HDL-c and increased uric acid; in female rats, it elicited a reversible increase ( P˂.05, 500 mg/kg) in AST. NL (500 mg/kg) irreversibly decreased ( P˂.05) sperm motility and count, and produced an irreversible increase ( P˂.01) in testosterone levels in male rats (100 mg/kg). It reversibly decreased (20-500 mg/kg) luteinizing hormone levels (both sexes). Conclusions NL is fairly safe at lower doses. However, it could cause anemia at lower doses, infertility (both sexes), liver and kidney injuries at high doses.

Ameliorative Histological Effects of Aqueous Neem Leaf Extract (Azadirachta indica) on Lead Induced Neurotoxicity of Lateral Geniculate Body of Adult Wistar Rats

Introduction: Lead exposure remains a significant public health burden across the globe, impacting millions of individuals and posing a major threat to nervous system development and function. Among the vulnerable targets of lead's neurotoxic assault is the lateral geniculate body (LGB), a crucial relay station within the visual pathway. This brain region acts as a gateway for visual information, processing signals from the retina and transmitting them to the visual cortex for interpretation. Aim: This study seeks to investigate the potential neuroprotective effects of aqueous Azadirachta indica (Neem leaf) extract against lead-induced neurotoxicity in the LGN of adult rats. Methods: Twenty (20) adult wistar rats weighing 150-200g were randomly grouped into four(4) (A-D, n=5). Group A Normal control Group B received (70mg/kg)(Orally) Lead only, Group C received (200mg/kg)(Orally) Azadirachta indica (Neem leaf), Group D received (70mg/kg Lead and 200mg/k Azadirachta indica)(Orally). Alterations in the relative weight of the LGB were determined, and antioxidant status was assessed by measuring Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. The effects of neem leaf extract on lactate dehydrogenase were also evaluated. Additionally, histological changes in the cerebellum due to lead exposure were examined using H&E and Cresyl Violet staining. Results: Lead exposure led to alterations in the relative weight of the LGB, SOD and CAT level was significantly (P,<0.005) reduced compared to the control, while the LDH was significantly increased(P.>0.005) and disruptions in lactate dehydrogenase activity. Aqueous neem leaf extract administration showed potential ameliorative effects mitigating these alterations and histological examination revealed ameliorative changes in the LGB associated with lead exposure. The study highlights the potential neuroprotective effects of aqueous neem leaf extract against lead-induced neurotoxicity, emphasizing its role in mitigating oxidative stress and preserving histological integrity in the LGN. Insights into the effects of neem on carbohydrate metabolism enzymes and cerebellar histology contribute to a comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential.

Elevated Levels of Gonadotrophic Hormones and Antioxidant Biomarker in Male Rats Following Administration of Hydromethanol Leaf Extract of Justicia secunda in Response to 2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine Induction.

2,4-Dinitrophenylhydrazine induces testicular toxicity and can result in reproductive dysfunction in male rats. This study investigated the effects of hydromethanolic leaf extract of Justicia secunda on phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced reproductive dysfunction in male Wistar rats. Twenty rats (90-170 g) were grouped into five (A-E) (n = 4) with the approval of the research ethics committee. Group A (control) received 0.5 mL of normal saline, Groups B to E received PHZ, PHZ + Astymin (0.5 mL), PHZ + J. secunda (0.2 mg/kg) and PHZ + J. secunda (0.5 mg/kg), respectively. All animals in Groups B to E received 2 mg/kg PHZ intraperitoneally for 2 days, and thereafter, administration of Astymin and J. secunda commenced in Groups C, D and E for 14 days using gavage. The data were analysed using a one-way analysis of variance and the Bonferroni post hoc test. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) decreased significantly in PHZ, PHZ + Astymin and PHZ + J. secunda (0.2 mg/kg) and increased significantly in PHZ + J. secunda (0.5 mg/kg) than control. Luteinising hormone (LH) and testosterone significantly (P < 0.001) reduced in treated groups than control. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and very-low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol were significantly reduced in the treated groups than the control. Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) significantly (P < 0.001) increased in treated groups than in control. Testicular glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase, catalase and malondialdehyde significantly increased in extract-treated groups compared to control. Superoxide dismutase significantly decreased in PHZ-treated group than in the control. PHZ administration caused testicular toxicity and altered biochemical markers, astymin treatment reduced male reproductive hormones, while J. secunda (0.5 mg/kg) increased FSH and LH, decreased TNFα levels and altered the concentration of testicular antioxidant markers. These alterations may be linked to the toxic effect of PHZ and could negatively affect spermatogenesis.

Total Cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels after Giving Olive Oil and Fig Fruid Extract Against Rattus Novergicus With High-Fat Diet

The reserach entiled “Changes in total chol; esterol levels and trigelyceride levels after administration of olive oil and fig leaf extract “was conducted from July to September 2024. This study aims to determine changes in total chplesterol levels and triglyceride levels when given olive oil and fig friut extract to white mice on a high-fat diet. Based on the results of stufy, constant result was obtained for total cholesterol in all treatment groups, namely 86.5 mg/dL and significant results were obtained in reducing triglycerides in the olive oil treatment group and the combination of olive oil and fig fruit extract, namely in the group given olive oil of 170.5 mg. /dL (81.19%), in the group given a combination of fig fruit extract it was 43.75 mg/dL (38.55%), and the increase in the group given fig fruit extract was 38 mg/dL (29.92%). The combination of olive oil and fig fruit extract has a constant effect on total cholesterol levels and reduces triglyceride levels. Fig fruit extract has a constant effect on total cholesterol levels and increases triglyceride levels. Olive oil has a constant effect on total cholesterol levels and more significant results in reducing triglyceride levels in mice with high-fat feed in all treatment groups.

Pengaruh Pemberian Ekstrak Daun Nimba (Azadiractha indica A.Juss) Sebagai Pestisida Nabati Terhadap Hama Helopeltis antonii Pada Tanaman Kakao (Theobroma cacao L.) Di Desa Hebing Kecamatan Mapitara

This study aims to determine the effect of giving neem leaf extract (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) as a vegetable pesticide against Helopeltis antonii pests on cocoa plants (Theobroma cacao L.). This research was conducted in Hebing Village, Mapitara District, Sikka Regency, which lasted for one month, from March 1 to March 31, 2023. The research method used was an experimental method with a Randomized Block Design (RBD). The factor studied was the effect of neem leaf extract on the number of punctures by Helopeltis antonii on cocoa pods, which consisted of 5 treatments and 4 replications. The treatments used in this study were P0: Without neem leaf extract (control), P1: 30ml neem leaf extract, P2: 60ml neem leaf extract, P3:90ml neem leaf extract, and P4: 150ml neem leaf extract. The parameter measured was the number of punctures by Helopeltis antonii. Research data were analyzed by normality test and homogeneity test. The normality test shows that the significance value is 0.200, which is a significant value &gt; 0.05, meaning that the data is declared normal. The homogeneity test shows a significance value of 0.372, which is a significant value &gt; 0.05 so the data is declared homogeneous. Based on the results of the ANOVA test, it was concluded that the administration of neem leaf extract affected the number of Helopeltis antonii pest pricks between treatments.

Efficacy of Bay Leaf (Syzygium polyanthum) in Regulating Lipid Profile in Dyslipidemia Model Rats: A Systematic Review

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the world, more than any other disease. The leading cause of cardiovascular disease is dyslipidemia. Long-term use of simvastatin can cause other diseases. One of the medicinal plants known to have anti-cholesterol effects is a bay leaf (Syzygium polyanthum). This study aimed to determine how the administration of bay leaf extract regulates lipid profiles.Methods: This study used a systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines. Sampling in this study was done by collecting studies available in e-databases: PubMed and Google Scholar, with the inclusion criteria being experimental studies about the effect of bay leaf extract administration in regulating lipid profile in rats.Results: This study consisted of 10 experimental studies on rats. Eight studies showed an improved lipid profile, while two other studies did not show an improving lipid profile after the administration of bay leaf extract.Conclusion: Most studies revealed that bay leaf extract positively improves lipid profiles by lowering total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, increasing HDL levels, and having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Prevention of Cerebral Malaria Hypoxia through administration of Neem leaves extract (Azadirachta indica) in Mice C57BL

Background: Cerebral malaria is the most serious complication of malaria infection. Plasmodium falciparum is the most common cause of cerebral malaria. Pathomechanisms underlying the severity of cerebral malaria include parasite ability, parasitemia degree, host inflammatory response, sequestration, disruption of the blood brain barrier (BBB), and brain hypoxia. Hypoxia causes cells to produce transcription factors such as the HIF-2α protein. The development of antimalarial drugs is based on fatal complications caused by hypoxia in cerebral malaria. Thus, it is necessary to investigate the mechanism of antihypoxia in cerebral malaria using natural materials, one of which is leaves (Azadirachta indica). Methods: Inoculation of Plasmodium berghei strain ANKA in C57BL mice aged 13-16 weeks. Parasitemia calculations were performed every day from the blood of the mouse tails. Treatment was given using 96% ethanol extract from neem leaves with dose of 8mg, 12mg, and 16mg orally for 6days. As treatment comparisons, there were also negative controls, positive controls, and healthy controls. Brain tissue was isolated on the seventh day to study the expression of p&gt;0.05). The hypothesis is tested using a one-way ANOVA test with post-hoc LSD test and Pearson's correlation test. Results: The administration of neem leaf extract significantly reduced parasitemia and hypoxia (p&lt;0,000). Meanwhile, the correlation test revealed a very strong relationship (r=+0.732) between parasitemia and hypoxia. Conclusion: Neem leaf extract administration reduces parasitemia and prevents hypoxia in mice induced by cerebral malaria

Evaluation of the Influence of oral administration of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Sida acuta on Lipid Profile and Body Weight of Wistar Rats

Abnormalities in serum lipid profiles play a central role in endothelial functional abnormality which is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis including coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral vascular diseases. Hepatic damage disturbs hepatic functions such as lipid metabolism which can translate to a distorted lipid profile. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of oral administration of Sida acuta on the lipid profile and body weight of Wistar rats. Freshly harvested leaves of Sida acuta was dried under room temperature and afterwards ground to powder which was subsequently processed into extract. Thirty adults male Wistar rats were divided into five groups of five rats each. Group I (normal control) was administered with 2 ml of distilled water, groups II–VI were induced hepatic damage. While group II was left untreated, groups III-V were administered with 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg of aqueous extract of Sida acuta (AESD) respectively. Group VI was administered with silymarin (standard drug). Treatment lasted for 28 days after which animals were humanely sacrificed and blood sample collected for analysis. Treatment with extract significantly (P&lt;0.05) reduced the activities of the liver enzymes; aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP). While the serum levels of TC, TG, HDL and LDL reported for group II were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher than those reported for the normal control. Oral administration of extract significantly (p&lt;0.05) reduced the levels of TC, TG, HDL and LDL reported for groups III-V. Oral administration of extract did not adversely affect the body weight of animals. In conclusion, it can be deduced from this study that oral administration of Sida acuta reversed a distorted lipid profile and did not result in weight loss.

Effect of moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves extract administration on testosterone profile in Marwari pubertal rams

Effect of moringa (Moringa oleifera) leaves extract administration on testosterone profile in Marwari pubertal rams

Effect of Pirdot Leaf Extract (Saurauia Vulcani Korth ) on SGPT and SGOT Value in Wistar Strain Rats Induced by Salmonella Typhimurium.

Typhoid fever is an acute disease caused by Salmonella typhimurium that can invade the liver and cause symptoms of hepatomegaly,jaundice.Biochemically, these symptoms can be assessed by seeing the SGPT and SGOT levels increase. Pirdot Leaf is an herbal plant found in the Toba area of North Sumatra which has a lot of bioactive potential,namely flavonoids,steroids, saponins. Flavonoids are active substances that can overcome the inflammatory process, it is expected that the administration of Pirdot leaf extract can reduce levels of SGOT and SGPT in mice induced Salmonella Typhimurium. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of ethanol extract of pirdot leaves on SGPT and SGOT values in rat models induced by Salmonella typhimurium. Methods: This study used 32 samples divided into four groups namely: Normal group, Negative group, Positive group and Treatment group. Results: The results were obtained for normal control SGPT (27,85) negative control (37,80) positive control (27,30) and for Dick treatment (26,21). The results of the study for SGPT obtained normal control (73,18), negative control (120,23), positive control (92,89), and treatment control (78,68). Giving ethanol extract of pirdot leaves effect on reducing SGPT and SGOT levels in wistar strain mice induced Salmonella typhimurium.

Performance and Physiological Response of Japanese Quails to Administration of Parquetina nigrescens

The purpose of the study was to investigate the response of Japanese quails to the administration of Parquetina nigrescence leaf extract (PNLE). The study was carried out at the Poultry Unit of the Teaching and Research Farm, Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria. Two hundred (200) day-old quails were purchased from a commercial hatchery. Parquetina nigrescens leaves were harvested around Babcock University, Ilishan,Remo, Ogun State Nigeria. Six hundred grams of the leaf was cut into smaller pieces and soaked into 1 litre of water for 72 hours, it was then filtered with a muslin cloth and the filtrate was given to the birds according to the treatments. The birds were randomly distributed into five treatments; each treatment replicated four times with 10 birds per replicate. Treatment 1 (T1); without PNLE served as the control, T2, T3, T4, T5 received PNLE at 0.20, 0.40, 0.60 and 0.80 ml/liter of water respectively. Data on phytochemicals, growth performance, and basic physiological responses were collected and subjected to analysis of variance using statistical analytical system. According to the results obtained, all the parameters for growth were not significantly influenced (p&gt;0.05) by the administration of PNLE with the exception of feed conversion ratio (FCR) and final live weight at the finisher phase. The best FCR (3.18) was recorded in T3 at the starter phase while T5 had the best final live weight and FCR at the finisher phase. There was significant difference (P&lt;0.05) in the oxygen concentration and pulse rates of the Japanese quails. It can be concluded from the study that the administration of Parquetina nigrescens up to 0.80ml is safe for Japanese quails for optimum performance.

Acute and Chronic Oral Toxicity of Hydroethanolic Extract of Sclerocarya birrea (Anacardiaceae) in Wistar Rats.

Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich). Hochst, popularly known as Morula, is a plant in the Anacardiaceae family. The bark, fruits, and leaves have traditionally been used to manage a variety of health conditions, most especially diabetes. Unfortunately, there is a scarcity of data and publications on the toxicity and safety of this plant. The current study was designed to assess the acute and chronic toxicity of a hydro-ethanolic extract of Sclerocarya birrea in albino rats. Sclerocarya birrea was extracted using an 80-20% hydro-ethanolic solution. For the acute toxicity study, female Wistar albino rats were treated with hydro-ethanolic leaf extract at a dose of 5000 mg/kg body weight and followed-up for 14 days. In the chronic toxicity study, 40 healthy Wistar albino rats were divided in 4 groups. The three treatment groups were administered the leaf hydro-ethanolic extract orally at dosages of 30, 150, and 1000 mg/kg once day for 90 days and the fourth group was a control group. Body and organs weights, haematological, serum biochemical, and histopathological parameters were measured at the end of the experiment. Single-dose oral administration of hydro-ethanolic leaf extract of Sclerocarya birrea at 5000 mg/kg produced no mortality indicating the LD50 is greater than 5000 mg/kg body weight. Following 90 days of administration of a hydro-ethanolic extract of Sclerocarya birrea leaves, there was no significant change in body and organs weights. Furthermore, biochemical, haematological and histopathological parameters did not vary significantly. This data indicates neither acute or chronic toxicity in rats and is consistent with the widespread and long-term usage of Sclerocarya birrea in African traditional medicine.

Gestational administration of aqueous leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis alleviated postpartum emotional and cognitive dysfunction in rats (Wistar strain).

This study examines the effect of gestational administration of aqueous leaf extract of Jatropha tanjorensis (JT) on postpartum-like behavioural outcomes to delineate its possibility as a prophylactic, therapeutic agent in the treatment of postpartum symptoms. Inseminated female rats (120-150g) were grouped into two-control and JT group (n=10). Control received 20 ml/kg of distilled water and JT group received 500 mg/kg of JT orally once daily for 21 days in gestation. Non-pregnant rats were excluded from the study. Parameters assessed at postpartum include antidepressant-like (force swim test, FST; tail suspension-test, TST), locomotor (open field test, OFT), anxiolytic-like (elevated plus maze, EPM; light-dark box, LDB), learning and memory (T-maze; novel object recognition task, NORT), social (nest score) and analgesic-like (hot plate test, HPT; tail flick test, TFT) behaviours. JT increased (P<0.05) mobility and latency to immobility durations in FST and TST; open arm entry (P<0.001) and duration (P<0.01) in EPM and light box duration (P<0.05) in LDB; locomotion and exploration, but reduced anxiety-like levels in EPM, LDB and OFT. It increased nest score (P<0.05); mean retraction time (P<0.01) of TFT. JT showed positive score for short and long term memory in NORT and improved percentage alternation in T-maze though not significant compared to control. In conclusion, the aqueous extract has a therapeutic effect that reduces postpartum-like depression and anxiety, and improves locomotor activity. JT can be a preventive and adjuvant therapeutic option for pregnant women.