Safety and toxicity profiles of the ethanol extract of Lophira alata (Ochnaceae) stem bark in mice

Abstract

The use of herbal medicines is beneficial but not devoid of adverse effects. Toxicity of Lophira alata, a plant commonly used in parts of West and East Africa was evaluated in this study. The mean oral lethal doses were determined. Sub-acute toxicity in murine models using 250-2000 mg/kg of the ethanol extract of the plant was carried out. Animals were treated with the extract, daily for two weeks after which, they were sacrificed, and the blood, brains and visceral organs carefully collected. These were used for haematological, biochemical (renal and hepatic) and histopathological analysis. Significant changes in haematological, hepatic and histological indices were observed at higher doses. Prolonged use of Lophira alata at high doses may not be advisable due to its potentially cytotoxic properties.

Keywords: Lophira alata, ethanol extract, extract, ethanol, toxicity