Effect of Aqueous Root-Bark Extract of Vitex Doniana Sweet on Haematological Parameters in Rats

Acute and sub-acute toxicities of aqueous extract of Vitex doniana was carried out in rats. The LD50 following intraperitoneal administration estimated at 95% confidence interval was 980 mg/kg. The oral administration of the extract for 21 days at 50,100 and 200mg/kg had beneficial effects on the haematological parameters. There were significant (P<0.05) increases in red blood cell count (RBC) haemoglobine (HB) concentration and packed cell volume (PCV) values in treated rats. The treated animals had leucocytosis, which may be due to increase lymphocyte count observed. The i.p LD50 (980 mg/kg) indicated that the extract is moderately toxic, though the prolong oral administration of the extract under the condition of this study shows that the extract may be toxic at higher doses. Nevertheless, the extract appear to be more beneficial at lower doses and significantly (p< 0.05) improves RBC, HB and PVC values and this effect has potential application as anti-anaemic agent. This seems to provide justification for its use as anti-anaemic agent in African traditional medicine. [Journal of American Science. 2010;6(12):8-12]. (ISSN: 1545-1003).