Anthelminthic activity of Withania somnifera. L. Dunal water extract in sheep

Abstract

The anthelminthic activity of Withania somnijera, L. Dunal a Maasai traditional anthelminthic was studied in sheep. The McMaster egg count technique and coproculture was used to evaluate worm infestation and the effect of the water extract of the medicinal plant. The water extract was prepared in accordance witb the Maasai traditional method. The results showed that the reduction in the egg per gram count in sheep treated with Withania somnvera water extract is comparable to that of Lepoxy (a levamisole-based anthelminthic) and was significant (pcO.05) wheu compared to the control non-treated animals. It is concluded that FVifhania somnvera has anthelminthic activity and that the effect against tapewornls (nlonieza benedeni and M. expansa) is more predominant.