In vitro anthelmintic activity of Cassava (Manihot esculenta) extract on Trichostongyloid larvae

Anthelmintic resistance has become a serious world-wide problem and has affected ruminant productivity in many countries. Thus the search for alternative methods of worm control has been an important priority in many small ruminant industries. Manihot esculenta had been shown to reduce trichostrongyloid eggs in infected sheep fed with such fresh leaves for prolonged period of time. Thus, this study was carried out to evaluate the anthelmintic activity of Cassava (Manihot esculenta) leaves extract against larvae of Trichostrongyloid nematodes using larval paralysis assay. Phytochemical analysis was carried out to determine the presence of tannin, saponin, phenols and alkaloids. The results of this study showed that Manihot esculenta extract can be used to control the infective stage of trichostrongyloid parasites of small ruminants.