Arthur, F.K.N., Woode, E, Terlabi, E.O. and Larbie, C.
Annona muricata is an important underutilized plant with established hepatoprotective effect against carbon tetrachloride and acetaminophen and can treat hepatic jaundice. The present study was carried out to evaluate acute and subchronic toxicity in animals and also to evaluate the phytochemical profile of aqueous extract of A. muricata leaves using standard procedures. The aqueous extract contained saponins, general glycosides and flavonoides. The median acute toxicity value (LD50) of the extract of A. muricata was determined to be < 5g/kg body weight. The extract lowered blood plasma glucose and low density lipoprotein (LDL-cholesterol) levels but raised high density lipoprotein (HDL-cholesterol) levels in both male and female rats. Treatment had no effect on liver, kidney, heart and stomach weight while uterus weight were increased in 1000 mg/kg and beyond. Haematological parameters, ALT, AST, ALP, urea and albumin were unaffected while creatinine levels were increased at 2500 mg. The LD50 value indicated the drug as being safe. The extract did not produce any toxic effect in the animals’ tissues at low and moderate doses but could cause kidney damage in higher doses. Lowering of plasma glucose level and the positive effects of the extract on the cardiovascular risk factors were an indicator that the extract could have some good antidiabetic activity.
