Effect of <i>Pterocarpus santalinus</i> ethanol leaf extract on haematological, histopathological and lipid profile indices in Wistar rats

Abstract

Pterocarpus santalinus (Red Sandalwood) is a medicinal plant used in traditional medicine for many purposes. This study is aimed at evaluating the effect of Pterocarpus santalinus leaf extract on haematological, histopathologicaland lipid profile indices in rats. Wistar rats were divided into four groups (1 – 4). Group 1 (control) was given distilled water (10 mL/kg), groups 2 - 4were administered oral doses of Pterocarpus santalinus ethanol leaf extract at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively once daily for 28 days. The body weights of the rats were monitored on a weekly basis during the experimental period. After the last dose was administered, the rats were sacrificed, and blood samples were collected, used for haematological and lipidprofile analysis. The brain and heart of each rat were harvested and used for histopathological analysis.The extract at 100 mg/kg resulted in a decrease in the RBC, Hg, MCH, MCHC, platelets and WBC. However, there were no changes in the WBC differentials (lymphocytes, neutrophils, basophils, and eosinophils). The levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides were not altered following extract administration, but HDL-cholesterol was slightly elevated while LDL-cholesterol was reduced significantly after extract administration. Histopathological examination of the heart and intestine of the rats showed no significant differences in the histological features of the rats in the treatment groups and those in the control group. These observations suggest that Pterocarpus santalinus leaf extract may be relatively safe when used for medicinal purposes.