Evaluation of the Acute and Sub-chronic Toxicities of the Methanolic Stem Bark Extract of Spathodea campanulata (P. Beauv.) Bignoniacea

Abstract

Spathodea campanulata (P. Beauv.)Bignoniacea is widely used in Ugandan traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to carry out the acute and sub-chronic toxicity profile of its methanolic stem bark extract (SCE). A single oral limit dose (5000mg/kg) did not cause any toxic effect or mortality. However, a 90day oral administration (200, 400and 800mg/kg) resulted in an acceleration of bodyweight increase. SCE had no effect on the relative organ weights except an increase on the stomach at 800mg/kg. Among the biochemical parameters considered the only significant (p<0.05) increase was observed with ALT at 800mg/kg. The levels of WBC, RBC, RDW and HCT dropped significantly (p<0.05) at 800mg/kg and 400mg/kg for WBC alone in the SCE-treated groups. There was a significant elevation (p<0.05) of MCV, MCH, MCHC at 800mg/kg in treated animals compared to the control. A histological analysis of the isolated organs showed that the heart is the vulnerable organ with myocardial necrosis and haemorrhage occurring at 400 and 800mg/kg following 90days administration. Acute use of SCE is safe. Therefore, the adverse effects observed on the liver and myocardium at high doses following prolonged administration could be avoided if compliant use is intermittent