Acute toxicity studies of the leaf extract of Ficus exasperata on haematological parameters, body weight and body temperature

Introduction: The plant, Ficus exasperata is popularly used in Nigeria and in several parts of Africa for a variety of ailments. Aim of study: This study was thus mapped out to investigate the toxicity profile of the aqueous leaf extract (AET) on haematological parameters, body weight and body temperature in mice. Methodology: In the present study, AET was evaluated for acute toxicity over 24 In and 14-day periods. The LD50 was assessed via oral and intraperitoneal administration. Results: The LD50 was indeterminable via the oral route but was determined to be 0.54g/kg i.p. In the 24 h and 14 days single dose study, oral administration of 2.5, 5, 10 and 20 g/kg of AET produced neither mortality nor changes in behavior or any other physiological activity in mice. Body weights and body temperatures were not significantly altered. Haematological analysis showed no marked differences in any of the parameters examined (WBC count, platelet and haemoglobin estimation) in either the control or treated groups. However, the 14 days daily dose study showed significant increase in body temperature (p < 0.05) and a significant decrease in the red blood cell count, haemoglobin count and haematocrit values (p < 0.05), while other parameters remained unchanged. Conclusion: In summary, AET was found to be relatively safe on short-term oral administration. However, chronic toxicity studies are required for the support of the safe use of this plant. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.