This study aimed at investigating the hepato-protective potentials of the aqueous, chloroform and methanol leaf extracts of Whitfieldia lateritia on 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (2,4-DNPH)-induced anaemia in rats. The toxicity study, quantitative phytochemical screening, total and direct bilirubin concentrations, mean protein, albumin and globulin concentrations, as well as mean liver marker enzymes activities (ALT, AST and ALP) were carried out using standard procedures. Thirty-six wistar rats were grouped into six (n =6). Group I: normal control; Group II: negative control; Group III: administered 0.6 ml/kg body weight (b.w) of Astifer (standard Haematinic); Group IV to VI were administered 400 mg/kg b. w. of the aqueous, chloroform and methanol leaf extracts, respectively. Induction of anaemia was achieved in the test groups (II-VI) by administration of 2, 4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (20 mg/kg b.w.) once daily for seven days. Administration of extracts commenced subsequently and lasted for 21 days. Animals were sacrificed on the 22nd day and blood collected for laboratory analysis. ALT, AST and ALP activities of group II anaemic rats showed significant (P < 0.05) reduction compared with normal control rats. Group III rats showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in ALT, AST and ALP activities compared with group II anaemic rats. Group IV rats showed significant (P < 0.05) increase in ALT and AST activity compared with group III rats. The total bilirubin concentration of group II rats was non-significantly (P > 0.05) higher compared with the normal control rats. Groups IV and VI rats showed non-significant (P > 0.05) reduction in total bilirubin concentration compared with group V rats. In conclusion, W. lateritia leaf has beneficial hepato-protective properties in Wistar rats at therapeutic dose that supports its use in the treatment of hepatic diseases
Aja Oti Agha, Egba Simeon Ikechukwu, Uhuo Emmanuel Nnaemeka, Alaebo Prince Ogochukwu, Mba Obinna Joseph and Oriaku Chinwe Edith
