Effects of the Ethanol Extract of the Stem Bark of Nauclea latifolia Smith [Rubiaceae] on Certain Biochemical and Haematological Indices of Swiss Albino Mice

The ethanol extract of the stem bark of Nauclea latifolia was investigated for its effect on certain haematological and biochemical indices of the swiss albino mice. Phytochemical screening of the extract for bioactive compounds indicated the presence of saponins, tannins, terpenes, cardenolide, balsams, alkaloids, flavonoids and cardiac glycosides, phlobatanins, cyanogenic glycosides and anthraquinones. The LD50 was determined to be 1414.2 mg/kg body weight. Sub-acute and chronic administration of the extract caused a significant increase of some heamatological indices as the dose administered increased from low to high while WBC level was observed to decrease. Biochemical indices such as globulin, urea and AST levels increased significantly as the dose administered increased from low to high, while albumin, total protein, ALT and ALP levels were observed to decrease. Results obtained also suggests certain effects on the heart and kidney with prolonged use. Nuclea latifolia stem bark extract should be used with caution.