Preliminary Evaluation for Anti-trypanosomal Activity of Aqueous Bark Extract of Crosssopteryx febrifuga in T. congolense Infected Rats

Abstract

Aqueous stem bark extract of Crossopteryx febrifuga was evaluated for anti-trypanosomal activity in rats. Twenty four rats divided into four groups (A, B, C, D) of six animals per group were used. Infection with T. congolense was established after a pre-latent periods of 10 and 11 days for curative (Group B) and prophylaxis (Group A) studies respectively. Both Group A and Group B were treated orally with 1500mg/kg of the crude extract for five consecutive days. Parasitemia, Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cells (RBC) counts and Differential leucocytes (WBC) counts were monitored throughout the studies. Phytochemical analysis of the crude aqueous extract was also carried out. Anaemia developed with establishment of infection in all the groups. Analysis of PCV, RBC and Differential WBC counts showed no significant difference (P>0.05) between treated and untreated animals. The crude extract contains saponins, tannins, reducing sugars, volatile oils and alkaloids as phytochemicals. It showed no significant prophylaxis or curative against T. congolense infection in rats as traditionally claimed. Although the plant may be used locally in combination with other plants or ingredients or even other orthodox drugs, further work is needed to fully assess the claim of the use of Crossopteryx febrifuga stem bark in the management or treatment of animal trypanosomiasis.