Biochemical and haematological changes mediated by a chloroform extract of Prunus africana stem bark in rats

Abstract

Various amounts of a chloroform extract of Prunus africana (Hook. f.) Kalkm. (Syn: Pygeum africanum Hook. f.) (Rosaceae) were fed to randomised groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats. The extract did not affect body weight gains after eight weeks of treatment at the dose levels used. It caused a moderate rise in plasma activity of alanine aminotransferase and blood urea nitrogen levels at a dose of 1000 mg/kg. Other biochemical and haematological parameters were not affected by treatment at any dose level. The results indicated that the chloroform extract was mildly hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic at continued oral doses equal to or more than 1000 mg/kg. It was concluded that the extract does not cause any overt toxicity when used at lower doses.