Nutrient Composition and Selected Biochemical Effects of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius Leaf Extracts in Male Albino Rats

Abstract

The present study evaluated nutritional constituents of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius leaf and examined the effect of aqueous and ethanol extracts on selected biochemical parameters using male albino rats. Forty five male albino rats weighing (115-121g) were used for the study. The rats were randomly divided into nine groups of five rats each. Group I served as the control while the other groups were administered 200, 400, 600 and 800mg/kg body weight of aqueous and ethanol leaf extracts. Mineral, proximate and vitamin analysis showed that the plant leaf contains appreciable amount of vitamin and minerals analysed. Results showed significant difference (P<0.05) between the control and Cnidoscolus aconitifolius leaf extracts administered rats with respect to body weight changes, liver function indices and hematological parameters (White Blood Cells) in dose dependent ratio. From this study, aqueous leaf extract of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius at doses of 400, 600 and 800mg/kg body weight showed evidence of cumulative toxicity. It is therefore suggestive to say that in order to ensure holistic safe utilization, bioactive constituents of Cnidoscolus aconitifolius leaf may be better extracted using ethanol as it has not shown any evidence of hepatotoxicity.

Antioxidant Potential and Known Secondary Metabolites of Rare or Underutilized Plants of Yucatan Region

“…This family comprises trees, shrubs, and herbs of pantropical distribution and contains 317 genera and approxi-mately 8000 species. Some of these species are included in the genus Cnidoscolus, which encompasses about 70 species [94][95][96]. In Mesoamerica, C. aconitifolius was extensively cultivated and used by the Mayan culture as a daily vegetable.…”

“…In Mesoamerica, C. aconitifolius was extensively cultivated and used by the Mayan culture as a daily vegetable. Although it is still used as an ingredient in traditional dishes, its consumption in its simple form is negligible, and it is more appreciated for its herbal remedy properties [94][95][96].…”

“…aconitifolius is rich in nutrients, containing high levels of minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, ascorbic acid, and β-carotene. In addition to its high nutritional content, C. aconitifolius has a diverse phytochemical composition, with compounds such as flavonoids, cyanogenic glycosides, saponins, anthraquinone steroids, tannins, phenols, alkaloids, and oxalates [95,97]. These compounds are biologically active and can prevent or treat diseases.…”