Moderation of hematological and plasma biochemical indices of sub-chronic salt-loaded rats, by an aqueous extract of the leaves of Acalypha wilkesiana 'Godseffiana' Muell Arg (Euphorbiaceae).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of an aqueous leaf extract of Acalypha wilkesiana (A. wilkesiana) on plasma chemistry and hematological indices of sub-chronic salt-loaded rats.

METHODS

The control group received a diet consisting 100% of the commercial feed, while the four test groups were received a diet consisting 8% salt and 92% commercial feed all through, except for the reference treatment group that had its salt-loading discontinued after six weeks. The extract was orally administered daily at 200 and 250 mg/kg body weight; while the test control, reference and control groups received appropriate volumes of water by the same route.

RESULTS

The extract had no negative effects on markers of liver and kidney functions, produced hemoconcentration, significantly higher (P<0.05) plasma calcium and potassium levels, and significantly lower (P<0.05) plasma sodium and chloride levels in the test animals compared to test control.

CONCLUSIONS

This result supports the traditional use of A. wilkesiana in the management of hypertension and suggests that the extract may be a potassium sparing diuretic whose mechanism of antihypertensive action may be via alteration of plasma sodium and potassium balances or calcium mediated alteration in vascular muscle tone.