Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of ingestion of ethanolic whole plant extract of Eleucine indica on haematological and biochemical parameters of Wistar albino rats. Methods: Subchronic toxicity study was carried out by oral administration of different doses (200, 400 and 600 mg/kg body weight) of the extract on alternate-day basis to different groups of rats for 28 days. The animals were subsequently sacrificed and blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture for haematological and biochemical analyses. Results: Haematological indices were preserved and the extract showed significant (P < 0.01–0.001) haemostatic potentials. There was significant reduction (P < 0.05–0.001) in total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase (P < 0.001), alanine transaminase (P < 0.05), alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.001) and blood glucose (P < 0.001) compared to control. The level of total protein increased significantly (P < 0.05–0.001). Kidney functions were, however, intact. Conclusions: The results obtained indicated that ingestion of Eleucine indica whole plant extract for a long period of time reduces both bleeding and clotting times, reduces blood sugar and shows no apparent toxic effect on liver and kidneys. The results of this study may be useful as a basis for clinical trials in humans.

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