The Bioscientist (May 2014)
Phytochemical Screening and Biochemical Effects of Aqueous Seed Extract of Xylopiaaethiopica (Uda) on SelectedHaematological Indices in Male Wistar Albino Rats
Abstract
The biochemical effects of aqueous seed extract of Xylopia aethiopica (uda) were determined on selected haematological indices of male Wistar albino rats using standard methods. Twenty five adult male rats were selected according to their weights and were divided into five groups designated A,B,C,D and E of five animals per group. Group A (control) received distilled water (1.0mL/kg body weight) whereas Groups B,C,D and E organisms were treated with 1.0mg/kg body weight, 2.0mg/kg body weight, 3.0mg/kg body weight and 4.0mg/kg body weight of extract respectively. The administration of the extract was carried out twice daily for 14 days after which the animals were anaesthesized and blood samples were collected 24 hours after the last administration through cardiac puncture and haematological studies carried out. The result revealed highest values of packed cell volume and invariably highest haemoglobin concentration (Hb) in Group E animals compared to the other groups. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of volatile oils, tannins, flavonoids and saponins while phytosterols, glycosides while alkaloids were absent. From the findings in this prospective study, Xylopia aethiopica seed extract has useful pharmacological bioactive compounds and as such could be used as tonic in traditional medicine and as immune booster
