Lorke's Method Research Articles

Antidiarheal Activity of Methanol Seed Extract of Cola Acuminata Schott & Endl (Malvaceae) In Mice

Cola acuminata nut extract has been shown to relax smooth muscles of the intestine in vitro, and this has made the plant popular as a potential antidiarrheal agent. This study aimed at evaluating the antidiarrheal activity of methanolic seed extract of Cola acuminata in mice. The extract was subjected to phytochemical analysis. The acute toxicity (LD50) study was conducted according to Lorke's method. The antidiarrheal activity was evaluated using castor oil-induced diarrhea and charcoal meal method in mice. Groups of mice were orally administered water (10 ml/kg), charcoal, Cola acuminata nut extract (150, 300 and 600 mg/kg), loperamide 2mg/kg, and atropine 1 mg/kg before castor oil. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, tannins, triterpenes, and saponins. The oral LD50 of the extract was estimated to be 2154 mg/kg. The extract produced a significant p < 0.05 increase in time of onset of diarrhea compared to the distilled water group. The extract produced dose dependent inhibition of the number of wet faeces. Extract at 600 mg/kg had more protection against diarrhea than the Loperamide. The extract did not significantly (p > 0.05) affect the intestinal movement of charcoal meal.

Bioactive constituents and acute toxicity of Blighia sapida capsule extracts using wistar rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceBlighia sapida, commonly known as Ackee, is a plant native to West Africa, with great cultural and therapeutic value, particularly in Western Nigeria. Traditionally, Blighia sapida capsule is used in western Nigeria to treat ecthyma in sheep and goats by heating it in hot ash. This process causes the capsule to release a liquid, which is then directly applied to the entire affected area of the skin. However, there is limited information available on its phyto-constituents and medicinal effects. Aim of the studyThis work examined the bioactive constituents, acute toxicity, and sub-acute toxicity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Blighia sapida capsule. Materials and methodsExtraction of phytochemical constituents was carried out with distilled water and ethanol and was concentrated at 40 °C. The phytochemical constituents were determined using a variant 3800/4000 gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) machine. Lorke's method was employed to determine the acute toxicity of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Blighia sapida capsule. ResultsThe GC-MS analysis revealed 15 bioactive compounds in both extracts, with kaempferol being the most abundant. Notable pharmacologically active compounds included pyrrolidin-2-ylmethanol, rutin, quinoline, apigenin, and naringenin. The study observed distinctive differences in aqueous and ethanolic extracts compound weights and peak areas. Acute toxicity study depicts that the lethal dose of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Blighia sapida capsule is above 5000 mg/kg as no mortality was recorded in the oral administration of 10, 100, 1000, 1600, 2900, and 5000 mg/kg of aqueous and ethanolic extracts. Sub-acute toxicity results indicated no significant adverse effects on kidney and liver function, although some variations in biochemical parameters were observed. Histological analysis showed normal renal and hepatic architecture in treated animals. ConclusionThis study demonstrated that aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Blighia sapida capsule exhibited no acute toxicity and minimal sub-acute toxicity, suggesting they are safe for consumption at the tested doses.

One-Step Synthesis, Crystallography, and Acute Toxicity of Two Boron-Carbohydrate Adducts That Induce Sedation in Mice.

Boronic acids form diester bonds with cis-hydroxyl groups in carbohydrates. The formation of these adducts could impair the physical and chemical properties of precursors, even their biological activity. Two carbohydrate derivatives from d-fructose and d-arabinose and phenylboronic acid were synthesized in a straightforward one-step procedure and chemically characterized via spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction crystallography. Additionally, an acute toxicity test was performed to determine their lethal dose 50 (LD50) values by using Lorke's method. Analytical chemistry assays confirmed the formation of adducts by the generation of diester bonds with the β-d-pyranose of carbohydrates, including signals corresponding to the formation of new bonds, such as the stretching of B-O bonds. NMR spectra yielded information about the stereoselectivity in the synthesis reaction: Just one signal was found in the range for the anomeric carbon in the 13C NMR spectra of both adducts. The acute toxicity tests showed that the LD50 value for both compounds was 1265 mg/kg, while the effective dose 50 (ED50) for sedation was 531 mg/kg. However, differences were found in the onset and lapse of sedation. For example, the arabinose derivative induced sedation for more than 48 h at 600 mg/kg, while the fructose derivative induced sedation for less than 6 h at the same dose without the death of the mice. Thus, we report for the first time two boron-containing carbohydrate derivatives inducing sedation after intraperitoneal administration. They are bioactive and highly safe agents. Further biological evaluation is desirable to explore their medical applications.

Evaluation of Subchronic toxicity and phytochemical analysis of aqueous extract of Ocimum suave (Lamiciae)

Evaluation of phytochemical content, acute and sub-chronic toxicity of the aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum suave in Wistar rats was carried out. Experimental rats were administered extracts daily for 31days at dose levels of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg. Acute toxicity and phytochemical screening of aqueous leaf extract were done according to method of Lorke’s Trease and Evans. Biochemical analysis was equally done at the end of the administration of extracts using standard methods. At the end of the study, animals were sacrificed and blood samples taken for biochemical assay. The LD50 was found to be greater than 10,000 mg/kg body weight. Results showed the presence of most phytochemicals tested for. The aqueous extract caused a decrease in ALT activity but AST and CK activities were higher in the treated groups in a dose dependent manner relative to the control. The aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum suave affected mean cell volume, mean cell hemoglobin and mean cell hemoglobin concentration. The aqueous leaf extract caused mean body weight gain, but decrease in relative organ weight. The study suggests that the aqueous extract administered at normal therapeutic doses is not likely to produce severe toxic effects on some hematological and biochemical indices in rats and the organs tested. Chronictoxicity of aqueous leaf extract of Ocimum suave should be done for histological, haematological andbiochemical evaluation. Key Words: Ocimum suave, Toxicity, Wistar Rats, Biochemical assay, Phytochemical, Extract

PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING AND EVALUATION OF ANTISCHIZOPHRENIC ACTIVITY OF METHANOL LEAF EXTRACT OF Hymenocardia acida Tul. (Phyllantaceae)

Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder marked by distortions in cognition, emotion, language, perception, and thought, affects an estimated 20 million individuals globally. In Nigeria, where a significant population relies on herbal medicines, including those derived from Hymenocardia acida, to address mental health needs, there have been traditional claims regarding the plant's efficacy in treating schizophrenia. This study aims to screen phytochemical constituents and establish the anti-schizophrenic potential of the methanol leaf extract of H. acida. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and steroids in the methanol leaf extract. The Lorke method determined the intraperitoneal median lethal dose (LD50) of the extract to be above 5000 mg/kg in mice. The anti-schizophrenic activity was assessed through various tests, including apomorphine-induced stereotypic behavior, swim-induced grooming, and haloperidol-induced catalepsy. Results indicated that the methanol leaf extract, at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg, did not significantly reduce apomorphine-induced stereotypic behavior. However, it exhibited a significant and dose-dependent reduction in the average number of grooming episodes and the duration of swim-induced grooming behavior across all tested doses. Notably, the highest dose (1000 mg/kg) significantly reduced cataleptic effects at 60 minutes post haloperidol administration compared to the negative control. These findings suggest the potential anti-schizophrenic activity of the methanol leaf extract of H. acida, supporting its traditional use in addressing psychiatric disorders.

Evaluation of the Antidiabetic Activities of the Fruit of Parquetina nigrescens (Afzel.) Bullock and In Silico Identification of Its Antidiabetic Agent.

The study investigated the antidiabetic potentials of the fruit extract of Parquetina nigrescens with the aim of justifying its folkloric antidiabetic usage in some part of Nigeria. Acute toxicity test of the plant extract was assessed using Lorke's method. Its antidiabetic activities were assayed in α-amylase, α-glucosidase, glucose, and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats' models at various doses with acarbose and glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) as positive controls. Molecular docking studies were performed to identify the antidiabetic constituent of the extract and elucidate its possible mechanism of action. The estimated median lethal dose (LD50) of the extract was above 5000 mg/kg. In the α-amylase, α-glucosidase study, the extract elicited concentration-dependent activity similar to acarbose. In the glucose-induced hyperglycaemic model, 200 mg/kg of the extract was the most effective dose with comparable (P > .05) antihyperglycaemic activity to glibenclamide (5 mg kg) at 1 to 4 h. Also in the streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats model, 100 and 200 mg/kg of the extract gave comparable (P > 0.05) activity on days 4 to 14 that were significantly better than that of glibenclamide on days 4 to 7. The n-hexane and ethylacetate fractions of the extract, both at 200 mg/kg were the most active with comparable activity to glibenclamide at all time points. The molecular docking studies identified isorhoifolin as the best binder against alpha amylase with binding energy (-9.1 kcal/mol), alpha glucosidase (-9.4 kcal/mol), sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (-9.5 kcal/mol), peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma (-10.3 kcal/mol), 11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (-10.8 kcal/mol), and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (-9.4 kcal/mol). The results of the antidiabetic study of P nigrescence fruit extract justified its usage in ethnomedicne in diabetes management.

Evaluating the influence of Trypanosomiasis on murine model using Corchorus olitorius leaf extract as a trypanocidal agent

Trypanosomiasis, a parasitic disease caused by trypanosomes, which are flagellate protozoa transmitted through the bite of the tsetse fly, manifests with symptoms including substantial weight loss, anemia, fever, edema, adenitis, dermatitis, and nervous disorders. This research investigated the impact of trypanosomiasis on a murine model while utilizing Corchorus olitorius leaf extract as a potential trypanocidal agent. An acute toxicity analysis was conducted following Lorke's method, and the antitrypanosomal efficacy was assessed in rats at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg over three weeks, monitoring changes in parasitemia count, body weight, and hematological parameters. Additionally, lipid profile, electrolyte concentration, and liver and kidney function were evaluated using standard techniques. The extract demonstrated potent antitrypanosomal activity at 400 mg/kg, significantly reducing the parasitemia count to 11.33±4.16 count/mL compared to the positive control at 2.5 mg/kg body weight doses. Furthermore, the 400 mg/kg dose notably increased packed cell volume and body weight in infected rats. Moreover, there were no significant discrepancies in numerous hematological parameters between the infected treated with diminazene aceturate and the extract's 400 mg/kg body weight. This study suggests that Corchorus olitorius extract exhibits significant antitrypanosomal, antilipidemic, and erythropoietic effects, mitigating parasitemia count, lipid levels, and oxidative damage by impeding the biochemical activities of trypanosomes through its active constituents. Thus, Corchorus olitorius extract may offer an alternative therapeutic approach for managing trypanosomal infections.

Ameliorating effect of Calotropis procera methanol leaf extract against oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation induced by fipronil in Wister albino rats

The exposure of humans to oxidative stress inducing chemicals is on the increase due to global industrialization. It has become vital to source for solution by searching for medicinal plants with antioxidant potential. This study was carried out to evaluate the toxicological effect and the antioxidant potential of Calotropis procera in fipronil induced Wister Albino rats. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical and antioxidant screenings of the leaf extract were conducted using standard laboratory protocols. Acute oral toxicity was conducted using Lorke's method to determine the LD50 of the plant extract. The sub-chronic toxicity was evaluated using the Organisation for Economic and Cultural Development method. The in vivo antioxidant potential of the plant extracts was determined using standard methods. Qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, phenols, cardiac glycosides, steroids, terpenoids and coumarines. Quantitative analysis revealed the amounts of saponins (32.67%), cardiac glycosides (7.6 mg/g), phenols (28 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (7.37 mg/g) and steroids (21.53 μg/mg) that were found. The LD50 was calculated to be 2154 mg/kg. Sub-chronic toxicity studies revealed insignificant (p>0.05) increases in body weight. Insignificant (p>0.05) changes in haematological parameters were also observed across treated groups compared to normal control. Liver and kidney function parameters were significantly (p<0.05) altered at higher (dose) of extract compared to normal control. In vivo antioxidant activity of the extract revealed strong antioxidant potentials due to significant (p<0.05) alteration of enzymatic (SOD, CAT, GSH and MDA) and non-enzymatic (vit C and E) antioxidants in the extract treated groups when compared to fipronil treated and normal control groups. Histological screening revealed that the liver and kidney tissues were significantly (p<0.05) altered at higher (dose) of extract administration. In conclusion, the present study validates the antioxidant potential and hence ameliorating effect of C. procera methanol leaf extract from toxic effects of phenyl pyrazole insecticides.

Haematinic and Hepatoprotective Properties of Telfairia occidentalis Fruit Mesocarp on Phenylhydrazine-Induced Anaemia in Experimental Rats.

The level and potential of iron contained in fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) has been exploited as a blood tonic; however, the potentials of some other parts of the plant are unknown. The effect of T. occidentalis fruit mesocarp (aqueous extract) on phenylhydrazine (PHZ)-induced anaemia in experimental rats was investigated in a bid to determine its curative properties and potential in reversing haemolytic anaemia and protection of liver health. The LD50 of the fruit extract was determined using Lorke's method for the determination of acute toxicity. The study involved oral administration of varying doses of the extract to different groups of rats which were monitored for 24 hours. The test sample did not show any signs of toxicity at doses of 5000 mg/kg b.wt, which is the highest possible recommended dose for toxicity testing. For the evaluation of the effects of the fruit extract on haematological indices and biochemical enzyme markers in anaemic rats, 30 matured albino Wistar rats were used. The rats were divided into five groups of six rats each. Group 1 consisted of normal rats (control group), Group 2 consisted of anaemic untreated rats, and Group 3 consisted of anaemic rats treated with the standard drug Astymin, while Groups 4 and 5 were made up of anaemic rats given the extract at doses of 600 mg/kg b.wt and 1000 mg/kg b.wt, respectively. The fruit extract failed to show any significant effect in improving the haemoglobin (Hb), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphate (ALP) levels in anaemic rats but rather may have contributed to a reduction in Hb levels and an unhealthy increase in serum enzyme levels. This is indicative of the apparent inability of the aqueous extract of the T. occidentalis fruit mesocarp to reverse PHZ-induced haemolytic anaemia and may suggest a possible detrimental effect of high doses of the extract over a prolonged period.

In Vivo Evaluation of Acute and Subacute Toxicity of Jatropha curcas Seed Oil

Medicinal plants are regarded as safe because of their natural origin, nevertheless, they can contain toxic substances that can exert adverse effects. This study aims to evaluate acute and subacute toxicity of Jatropha curcas seed oil using modified Lorke method and 28 days repeated dosing of grouped rats with normal saline and -10, 300, 600 mg/kg body weight of the seed oil. At the end of the experimentation, haematological and biochemical analysis of blood samples and the histopathology of the liver and kidney of rats in each group were evaluated. The Lethal Dose (LD50) of J. curcas seed oil was lower than 5000mg/kg b.wt. Haematological and biochemical analysis showed a dose-dependent decrease in the Hemoglobin, Packed Cell Volume and Red Blood Cells, an increase in the level of Total White Blood Count and Platelet Count, Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase, Alkaline phosphatase, urea and creatinine in the treated groups, while the histological evaluation revealed distortion in liver and kidney cytoarchitecture of rats administered with 600 mg/kg b.wt of the seed oil. The oil was found less toxic at the acute phase but there was toxicity manifestation in subacute phase causing adverse effects on haematological, biochemical parameters and the tissues of the kidney and liver. The study suggests that the seed oil can be used, but caution should be exercised when using it at high doses for prolonged periods.

Anti-inflammatory Assessment of Methanol Extract of Acalypha ciliata Leaves and It’s Leucocyte Mobilization in Adult Wistar Rats

Aim: The study's objective was to examine the anti-inflammatory activity and leucocyte mobilization of a methanol extract of leaves from Acalypha ciliata in adult Wistar rats.
 Study Design: Egg albumin-induced edema was used for anti-inflammatory test and leucocyte mobilization test was carried out to check for total leucocyte cout and differentials. 
 Place and Duration of the Study: This original study was conducted between January and June 2013 at the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria Nsukka.
 Methology: The pulverized leaf of Acalypha ciliata was extracted using cold maceration, and the Treas and Evans technique of phytochemical screening was used. The anti-inflammatory study was conducted using the method of Winter et al., and the acute toxicity study was assessed using Lorke's method. ANOVA was used to statistically examine the collected data.
 Results: Preliminary phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, soluble carbohydrates, phenols, glycosides, saponins, terpenoids and steroids. Flavonoids, Alkaloids, and Soluble carbohydrates appeared in abundant concentration (2199.76±10.81, 2141.6±7.583, 913±21.06). Acute toxicity tests showed no toxicity and mortality at doses up to 5000 mgkg-1. Anti-inflammatory study revealed that group treated with 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg b.w of extract significantly (P =0.05) and in a dose dependant manner decreased in TLC when compared with normal control. Moreover, the group treated with 100,200,400 mg/kg b.w of extract and reference drug(Indometacin) mobilized the leucocyte at the rate of 36, 22, 12 and 62 % respectively. A significant (P = 0.05) reduction in the mean paw oedema was observed for all the treatment groups from 1 hour to 5 hours when compared to the toxic group.
 Conclusion: As a result of this study's findings, it can be concluded that methanol extract of the Acalypha ciliata leaf has anti-inflammatory characteristics. High dosages of the extract resulted in a better decrease of oedema and an increase in leukocyte mobilization in response to agar suspension than low doses. Many anti-inflammatory herbs and substances alter inflammatory reactions by hastening the breakdown of or reversing the effect of the inflammatory mediators. The plant's anti-inflammatory properties could potentially result from the interaction of different photochemical substances present. The findings suggest that, if used, the plant may serve as a source of anti-inflammatory compounds.

Pharmacological evaluation of the anxiolytic-like effects of an aqueous extract of the Raphanus sativus L. sprouts in mice

Raphanus sativus L. (Brassicaceae), commonly known as radish, is consumed worldwide as a vegetable. However, its benefits on mental health are unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate its anxiolytic-like effects and safety using different experimental models. An aqueous extract of R. sativus sprouts (AERSS) was pharmacologically evaluated by intraperitoneal route (i.p.) at 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg and orally (p.o.) at 500 mg/kg on behavior by using open-field and plus-maze tests. In addition, its acute toxicity (LD50) was determined by the Lorke's method. Diazepam (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and buspirone (4 mg/kg, i.p.) were the reference drugs. A significant and anxiolytic-like dosage of AERSS (30 mg/kg, i.p.) resembling the effects of reference drugs was chosen to explore the involvement of GABAA/BDZs site (flumazenil, 5 mg/kg, i.p.) and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors (WAY100635, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) as a possible mechanism of action. A 500 mg/kg, p.o. dosage of AERSS produced an anxiolytic-like response equivalent to 100 mg/kg, i.p. No acute toxicity was observed since a LD50 > 2000 mg/kg, i.p. The phytochemical analysis allowed the identification and quantification of major presence of sulforaphene (2500 µM), sulforaphane (15 µM), iberin (0.75 µM), and indol-3-carbinol (0.75 µM), as major constituents. Both the GABAA/BDZs site and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors were involved in the anxiolytic-like activity of AERSS, depending on the pharmacological parameter or the experimental assay tested. Our results demonstrate that the anxiolytic activity of R. sativus sprouts involves GABAA/BDZs site and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors supporting its health benefits in the treatment of anxiety beyond the satisfaction of basic nutritional needs.

FREE RADICAL SCAVAGING ACTIVITY AND ANTIDIABETIC PROPERTY OF ETHANOL STEM BARK EXTRACT OF Uapaca togoensis IN ALLOXAN INDUCED DIABETIC ALBINO RATS

Diabetes mellitus is a disease of worldwide significance and increasing prevalence. This places a demand on researchers to find a solution to it through ethnomedicine. This study investigated the toxicological, antioxidant, anti-diabetic property and hyperlipidemic effect of Uapaca togoensis stem bark extract in alloxan induced diabetic wistar rats. Thirty (30) albino rats were assigned into six groups (A-F) of five rats each. Group A was not induced and used as positive control/nondiabetic group, while groups B-F were induced with alloxan at 150mg/kg administered via intraperitoneally (i.p). Group B used as diabetic control was not treated but allowed access to feed and water. C, D and E were treated with 300mg/kg, 700mg/kg and 1000mg/kg of Uapaca togoensis stem bark extract respectively; while group F was treated with standard drug (glibenclimide) at a dose of 5mg/kg. The doses were administered orally and the treatment lasted for 7 days. Results indicated that the extract have hypoglycemic activity on the diabetic rats. Modified method of Lorke was employed to ascertain the extract toxicity and the result however indicated that the extract was safe for the test rats up to 5000mg per body weight dose. DPPH, FRAP and Hydrogen peroxide assays were used to assess the antioxidant activities of the extract. The results were significant at p<0.05 at all concentrations compared with the standard (vitamin C) and the % inhibitory activities were almost the same with Vitamin C in hydrogen peroxide method. This was an indication that Uapacatogeonsis extractpossess antioxidant properties.

Acute toxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of essential oils of Cotula cinerea from southwest Algeria

This work deals with the biological activity of the essential oils of an Algerian plant (Cotula cinerea) which belongs to the Asteraceae family. The study was carried out in the south-west of Algeria. We chose essential oils which are natural substances thanks to their numerous anti-infectious, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, etc. The objective of this work is to study the acute toxicity as well as the evaluation of the anti-inflammatory properties of the essential oils of both organs (leaves and flowers) of Cotula cinerea. As methodological approaches, we used the hydrodistillation technique to obtain the essential oils from leaves and flowers. Thus, the acute toxicity was determined by Lorke's method and the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by measuring the plantar oedema of mice induced by carrageenan. The results show that the essential oil extracts of the leaves and flowers are low toxic substances with LD50s of 1131.37 mg/kg and 1264.91 mg/kg respectively. They also show a considerable anti-inflammatory effect at doses not exceeding 300 mg/kg with maximum percentages of 86.16% for leaves and 80.87% for flowers. These results show the efficacy of the essential oils of this plant and their therapeutic richness which can be used in traditional medicine for anti-inflammatory treatment. This study has provided additional knowledge on the biological activity of Cotula cinerea essential oils and has opened perspectives for the research of the active principles contained in this species as well as the application of biotechnology to know the molecular mechanism and valorise this natural wealth.

ANTIPLASMODIAL ACTIVITIES OF THE STEM BARK EXTRACT OF ARTOCARPUS ALTILIS FORSBERG.

Background:The potential of Artocarpus altilis stem bark as a safe antimalarial agent, and the identification of its antimalarial constituents was explored.Materials and Methods:The air-dried stem bark was extracted with 70% ethanol, filtered and concentrated in vacuo to obtain the extract (EE). The extract was successively partitioned to give n-hexane (AAH), dichloromethane (AAD), ethyl acetate (AAE) n-butanol (AAB) and aqueous (AAQ) fractions respectively after determining the acute toxicity using Lorke’s method. These were each evaluated for chemosuppressive antimalarial activities (0-200mg/kg) against chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei-berghei-infected albino mice. Normal saline and chloroquine, 10 mg/kg were negative and positive control respectively.The survival times and percentage survivors of the mice in both experiments were determined after observation for twenty-eight days post-drug administration. The five (5) column chromatographic (CC) fractions, AAH1, AAH2, AAH3, AAH4 and AAH5 obtained from the most active AAH, were also evaluated for antimalarial activities (0-50mg/kg). Further column purification and repeated PTLC of AAH5 yielded three bands, which were finally subjected to GC-MS analysis.Results:EE gave ED50 and LD50 values of 227.17and >5000 mg/kg while its partitioned fractions gave ED50 values as follows: AAH, 79.14; AAD, 215.59; AAE, 160.46, AAB, .42; and AAQ, 90.85 mg/kg respectively. The primary CC fractions also gave ED50 values as follows: AAH1 21.95; AAH2, 26.96; AAH3, 21.30; AAH4, 20.92 and AAH5, 20.75 mg/kg respectively to identify AAH5 as the putative fraction. GC-MS analysis revealed eleven major compounds (1–11) in the three PTLC bands as the antiplasmodial constituents of the plant.Conclusion:The stem bark of A. altilis is a potential agent in malaria control which is safe for oral use.

Assessment of Vino Gano Ginger and Herb Liqueur on the Biochemical Parameters of the Wistar Rats

Biochemical parameters are biomarkers used in evaluating the functionality of some bodily organs such as liver, kidneys and the heart. This study aimed at assessing the effects of Vino Gano Ginger And Herbal Liqueur on the Biochemical Parameters of the male Wistar rats. A total of 25 adult male Wistar rats weighing between 115.3 -248.6 g were used for experiment. They were divided into four groups [4 in each group] based on the body weight and different dosage of Vino Gano Ginger and Herb Liqueur were administered to the rats of various groups. Nine [9] out the 24 was used to determine the Sub- acute test to basses toxicity and mortality using Lorke (1983) method.
 The animals were separated into four [4] groups; control and three treatment groups that received [5 ml/kg, 10 ml/kg and 15 ml/kg] of Vino Gano Ginger and Herb Liquor orally for 4 weeks. The experimental animals were weighed weekly and at the end of the 4th week, they were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for Biochemical Analysis. Results showed significant elevation in mean AST, ALT, ALP, Urea, Creatinine, Total Cholesterol and LDH of the Wistars treated with [5 ml/kg, 10 ml/kg and 15 ml/kg] of the Vino Gano Ginger and Herb Liqueur (p<0.05). A significant Total Protein reduction was recognized of the Wistar rats treated with Vino Gano Ginger and Herb Liqueur. There was slight increase in Albumin in the treatment group 1 [5 ml/kg] but reduction was recorded in treatment groups II and III [10 ml/kg and 15ml/kg]. In conclusion, continues intake of Vino Gano Ginger and Herb Liqueur will pose reno-toxic effect, Myocardial infarction, Cholestasis, Sarcopenia, leukemia and other life treating conditions.

Acute toxicity study of aqueous fruit extract of xylopia aethiopica (dunal) a. Rich. In albino Rats

Abstract Background: Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich, is a medicinal plants distributed in lowland rainforest of Guinea Savannah zones of Africa. It is widely consumed in African cuisine as spice as well used in traditional African medicine especially by pregnant women to either; ease child birth, induce placental discharge, facilitate lactation or to prevent nausea. Objectives: This study aimed at determining the toxicity level of the aqueous fruit extract of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. in albino rats. Methodology: Lorke's method was adopted, using twelve female albino rats of Wistar strain weighing 120 to 160g. The study was divided into two phases of three groups each. First phase were administered at the dose rate of 10, 100 and 1000 mg/kg body weight respectively (N=3). Second phase were administered at the dose rate of 1600, 2900 and 5000 mg/kg body weight (N=1). Result: Clinical signs of toxicity like loss of appetite, piloerection, stretching of the abdomen, one-sided movement, diarrhea and lethargy were observed in rats groups treated with 1000 and 1600 mg/kg of Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. While mortality were observed in the rats groups treated with 2900 and 5000 mg/kg of the extract. Tissue samples collected for Histology, liver, kidney and spleen showed vascular congestion, degeneration architecture of the glomerulus accompanied with distortion of renal tubules and severe hemosiderin in the respective organs. Conclusion: LD50 of the extract was estimated to be 2154 mg/kg. The study showed that though the extract is relatively safe but indiscriminate consumption of the extract at a higher dose can be deleterious to health.

Involvement of monoaminergic systems / pathways in the mechanism of action of the antidepressant effect of Leptadenia hastata (Pers.) decne methanol leaf extract

Depression is a mental disorder that is highly prevalent in many parts of the globe and a source of burden to patients and their families. Existing treatments for depression are far from satisfactory because many patients with depression do not respond effectively and have significant adverse effects on standard antidepressant drugs. It is vital to develop novel antidepressant from medicinal plants, which are considered a good source of drugs with fewer adverse effects. An earlier study has established the in-vivo antidepressant effect of methanol leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata. However, no scientific data on its involvement in the monoaminergic mechanism of action. This study aimed to evaluate the involvement of monoaminergic systems in the antidepressant potential of methanol leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata. The acute toxicity studies of methanol leaf extract of Leptadenia hastata (MELH) was determined using Lorke's Method. The antidepressant effect of the MELH was evaluated using the Tail Suspension Test (TST) and Open Field Test (OFT) for psychostimulant effect. The possible mechanism of antidepressant actions of the MELH was also investigated by intraperitoneal pre-treatment with adrenergic, serotonergic, dopaminergic, opioidergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonists. The intraperitonial (i.p.) median lethal dose (LD50) values were estimated to be >5000 mg/kg. Administration of standard drug, Imipramine (10 mg/kg) and MELH (250, 500, and1000 mg/kg) significantly (p<0.01) and dose-dependently decreased the duration of immobility time. However, the anti-immobility effect of the MELH was significantly (p<0.05) reversed by prazosin, cyproheptadine and naloxone, suggesting the involvement of adrenergic, serotonergic and opioidergic pathways. However, no significant interactions with dopaminergic and muscarinic cholinergic receptor antagonists were observed. This study concluded that the observed antidepressant effect in MELH is likely mediated through their interactions with adrenergic, serotonergic and opioidergic systems.

Phytochemical Constituents of Cnestis ferruginea and Its Toxicity in Fish

The study explored the potentials of C. ferruginea as a nutritional supplement while also testing its possible toxicity to fish. Standard proximate and mineral analysis procedures were used to estimate nutritional composition, while Lorke's and Tainter and Miller's methods were used to determine LD50 of C. ferruginea. Results were presented as means±SD, and analysis of variance was used to test for differences in means. The values obtained for each parameter measured were significantly different (p<0.05) across all the samples. The analyzed ash contents for the crude powder, aqueous, ethanolic extracts were 1.47±0.02, 1.06±0.01, and 0.85±0.01,respectively. A low protein concentration of less than 5% was recorded across the samples. A decreasing trend (75.05±0.25 < 52.09±0.19 < 31.21±0.61) was observed in the carbohydrate values in the crude powder, aqueous and ethanolic extracts, respectively. The mineral composition of C. ferruginea across the samples was significantly different (p<0.05). The crude powder sample had the highest values recorded for all the minerals analyzed, followed by the aqueous and then ethanolic extract except for iron and copper, where ethanolic extract had higher values than aqueous extract. The values obtained for alkaloids, flavonoids, saponin, tannin, phenolic compounds, and oxalates showed a significant increase (p<0.05) in the crude powder sample, aqueous extract, and ethanolic extract, respectively. However, the ethanolic extract had higher values than the aqueous extract for glycosides, terpenoids, and steroids. Of the phytochemical components analyzed, oxalate had the highest value (16.11±0.01) followed by saponin (12.31±0.19), alkaloids (8.12±0.00), and tannin (6.43±0.17). The lowest values were recorded in steroids (0.11±0.00), terpenoids (0.29±0.01), and glycosides (0.34±0.01). LD50 was calculated to be 223.61 mg/kg for aqueous extract of C. ferruginea and 170.29 mg/kg for ethanolic extract (Lorke's method), while 124.82 mg/kg was obtained for aqueous extract and 128.63 mg/kg for ethanolic extract of C. ferruginea (Miller and Tainter method). The behavioural responses observed include weakness, hanging within the water column, and slow response to feeding. Mortality was recorded in some doses. The results indicate that C. ferruginea is a potential source of energy and minerals when incorporated into the fish diet. Its phytochemical constituent is wealthy and could be used in fish health management. However, the plant is toxic and cautiously applied with an LD50 value lower than 2.500 mg/kg.

Biosafety evaluation of Carica papaya aqueous leaf extract on haematological parameters and organ/body weight ratio in Wistar rats.

Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae) is an herbaceous perennial tree crop commonly cultivated for its ripe edible fruit. Locally, the leaf decoction is used for treatment of malaria. This study investigated acute toxicity and sub-acute biosafety of C. papaya aqueous leaf extract on haematological and organ/body weight indices. Matured fresh C. papaya leaves were collected, dried and pulverized before extraction using aqueous decoction technique. The liquid extract was further concentrated to dryness and kept in an air tight bottle until further use. Acute toxicity in mice was appraised according to the method of Lorke, while sub-acute toxicity was determined by assessing haematological and organ/body weight parameters in four groups of Wistar rats pre-treated as follows: Group I (control) received distilled water (ml/kg body weight), while groups II, III and IV were administered single daily doses of 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg of the extract for 28 consecutive days. The result from the acute toxicity studies was assessed to be above 5000 mg/kg, while the 28 days sub-acute test revealed that there was no significant difference, P> 0.05, in all haematological parameters and organ/body weight ratios evaluated when compared with the control. This study revealed that orally administered C. papaya aqueous leaf extract was tolerated at a single high dose, LD50 above 5000 mg/kg. Also, repeated administration of the test doses did not adversely interfere with any haematological parameter as well as organ/body weight profiles evaluated. The data obtained tend to support the biosafety of the plant extract as reportedly used in herbal home remedies.