Chemical Composition and Evaluation of Methanol Leaf Extract of <i>Combretum dolichopetalum</i> on Body Weights and Haematological Indices of Phenylhydrazine Induced-anaemic Rats

Abstract

Anaemia is a serious health challenge in developing countries. This study evaluated the chemical composition of Combretum dolichopetalum (CD) leaves, the effect of its methanol extract on the body weights and haematological indices of phenylhydrazine induced-anaemic rats. Fresh matured leaves of CD were collected, identified and authenticated. Phytochemicals, proximate compositions, mineral elements, anti-nutritional factors and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis were determined. A total number of twenty (20) mature inbred apparently healthy male albino rats of the Wistar strain (100-150 g) were used for this study. Anaemia was induced by administering phenylhydrazine to rats in Groups 2, 3 and 4 comprising of five rats per group. Group 1 (non-anaemic control) (n = 5) and Group 2 (anaemic control) received distilled water respectively while Groups 3 and 4 were administered 200 and 400 mg/kg of CD leaf extract orally using oropharyngeal cannula once per day for 28 days. Blood samples were obtained for haematological analysis using standard methods. The result showed a significant increase in Red Blood Cell (RBC), Packed Cell Volume (PCV) and haemoglobin concentration in Groups 3 and 4 compared with the anaemic group. Chemical analysis showed the presence of some phytochemicals, proximate compositions, mineral elements and anti-nutritional factors. GC-MS analysis showed the presence of nine (9) compounds. This study indicates that CD is nutritionally rich and contains some important bioactive principles that support its anti-anaemic properties.