AN EVALUATION OF THE TOXIC EFFECTS OF HYPTIS SUAVEOLENS IN RATS

Abstract

The effects of prolonged administration of graded doses of Hyptis suaveolens (Linn.) Piot Labiatae leaf extract on the changes in the body weight, haematological, toxicological and histological indices in rats were evaluated. There was an initial increase in weight which later significantly (p<0.05) reduced in the treated groups. A significant decrease in packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb) concentration, red blood cell (RBC)count and an increase (though not statistically significant p>0.05) in white blood cell (WBC) count were observed. No fatality was recorded in acute toxicity tests in which the animals were given 100mg/Kg to1600mg/Kg body weight of the aqueous extract, although the rats given higher doses (800mg to 1600mg/Kg body weight ) exhibited some behavioral changes such as aggressive scratching of the body and head, drowsiness and sleep depressed pulse, loss of vigor, and apparent loss of weight. Quantitative phytochemical constituents present in the extract were found to include saponin, tannin and flavonoids. Histopathological examination of the liver revealed fatty changes and congestion of the central vein as the major indicator of hepatic damage.


Key Words: Hyptis suaveolens; Labiatae; rats; toxicity


Nigerian Journal of Natural Products and Medicine Vol.7 2003: 49-52