Effects of aqueous extract of Basella alba leaves on haematological and biochemical parameters in albino rats

The effects of the aqueous leaf extract of Basella alba on haematological and biochemical parameters were studied in Wistar strain albino rats. Twenty four (24) Wistar strain albino rats were randomly distributed into four groups of six (6) rats each. Group I rats served as control and received 10 ml/kg of normal saline, while group II, III and IV received 60, 80 and 100 mg/kg of aqueous leaf extract of B. alba , respectively, for two weeks. Administration of the extract was done orally. At the end of the treatment period, haematological parameters (red blood cell count, white blood cell count, platelet count, packed cell volume and haemoglobin concentration) and biochemical parameters (alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransaminase (AST)) were determined. The results showed that B. alba significantly increased (p < 0.05, 0.01) red blood cell count, white blood cell count, packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration and platelet count. However, the extract significantly (p < 0.05, 0.01) reduced the activity of the liver enzymes such as ALP, ALT and AST. The decreases were dose dependent. In conclusion, adding B. alba leaves as part of daily diet may reduce anaemia and maintain good health. Key words: Basella alba, haematological parameters, biochemical parameters, albino rats.