1Biology
Programme, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
University, ATBU-Bauchi, Bauchi, Nigeria,
2Faculty of Medical Sciences,
University of Jos, Nigeria
*Corresponding
author: E-mail:
aanuhu@yahoo.com
Tel: 08072508912
Received: 14 June 2008
Revised accepted: 19 August 2008
Tropical
Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, December
2008; 7(4):
1137-1142
Abstract
Purpose:
Among the Hausas of Northern Nigeria, it is claimed by
local (traditional) healers that the infusion of C.
occidentalis leaves is used as a cure for hepatitis.
This study was designed to evaluate the possible
negative effects of the aqueous extract of this herb on
serum total proteins, albumin, bilirubin, alanine amino
transferase (ALT), aspartate amino transferase (AST) and
alkaline phosphatase (ALP), as part of a larger study
undertaken by these authors to ascertain the
hepatoprotective potential of the plant extract.
Methods:
Fresh leaves of C. occidentalis were extracted with
water and screened for phytochemical components. The
extract was used for the treatment of 18 albino rats.
Serum from these animals was used for the determination
of the test parameters.
Results:
The extract showed hypoproteinaemic effect. ALT, AST and
ALP levels were significantly elevated (P< 0.05).
Conclusion:
Hypoproteinaemic effects, and increase in ALT, AST and
ALP are indications that the crude extract of C.
occidentalis leaves may be slightly toxic as a
concoction for liver ailments.
Key words:
C. occidentalis, Liver, Serum proteins, Transaminases,
Hypoproteinaemic effects
