Objective: Potash known as potassium carbonate (K2CO3) is a mixture of salt with other components, including impurities which coexist in mineral and salt is highly consumed in various forms by pregnant women. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of potash on the weight index of pregnant Wistar rats. Methods: A total of 25 albino Wistar rat with weights ranging from 180 to 300 g were used and allocated into five groups of five animals each (four females and one male) designated as Groups A, B, C, D, and E. The experimental Groups B, C, D, and E were administered through oral route different doses of potash of 300 mg/kg, 600 mg/kg, 900 mg/kg, and 1200 mg/kg, respectively, after pregnancy was detected by checking for mucus plug in the vagina. Group A served as the control group and was administered distilled water only. The animals were allowed for 1 week for acclimatization under normal temperature (270–300°C), which they were being fed with normal feed (grower’s mash) and water ad libitum for 1 week. Results: The result showed a significant (p˂0.05) reduction in weight with the highest level seen with the 1200 mg/kg group when compared to the control. Conclusion: Therefore, the effect of potash alters the physical activity and decreases weight, by implication may induce growth retardation of the Wistar rats which is not healthy for a pregnant animal.

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The anxiolytic effect of the leaves of water lily was investigated using mice as experimental animals. Thirty (30) were mice randomly divided into group 1, 2 and 3. Before the neurobehavioral parameters were assessed, the LD50 and the phytochemical screening of the leaves of the plant were determined. The open field maze and the transition box apparatus were used to determine the level of fear and anxiety related behaviors in mice. In the open field arena, the grooming frequency was statistically not different when compared to control. Stretch attend posture frequency (SAP) was statistically higher in the test groups when compared to control (P<0.001). It was also observed that the frequency of defecation decreased in the treated groups when compared to the control group (P<0.01). The light duration box and frequency of transition were statistically higher (P<0.001) compared to control. Thus, the leaves of the plant tend to reduce the level anxiety in mice.