Obed Nanjul Goselle¹, Azonchi Arin Hassan^1,2, Nannim Nanvyat¹ , Julfa Joseph N Nden³, Benard Malau Matur¹, Barineka MW Nwibari⁴, Naomi Nari James-Rugu¹

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the antimalarial potential of Cissus quadrangularis stems using three mice models. Methods: Ninety mice were divided into 3 models (30 each), i.e., suppressive, curative, and prophylactic activities. Six groups (n = 5) were used in each model: normal control, negative control, standard drug control, chloroquine (5 mg/kg) for suppressive and curative tests, pyrimethamine (1.2 mg/kg) for prophylactic, and three extract-treated groups (100, 200, 400 mg/kg). Extracts and controls were given orally for 4 days. Parasitaemia and haematological parameters were assessed. Acute toxicity was evaluated using Lorke's method. Results: Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, and carbohydrates. Acute toxicity showed an LD?? > 5000 mg/kg, with no observable behavioural changes or mortality. Extract exhibited a dose-dependent suppression of parasitaemia (p < 0.05). Treated groups had higher Red Blood Cell (RBC) count, Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Platelet Count (PLT count), Haemoglobin (HBG), and lower White Blood Cell count (WBC) compared with negative control (p < 0.05), indicating protection against malaria-induced anaemia and leukocytosis. Conclusion: Aqueous extract of Cissus quadrangularis stem possesses antimalarial properties that could be harnessed to develop a safe, effective and cost-effective antimalarial agent.